Master percussionist and Havana native Joaquín “El Pulpo” Pozo, descended from a long line of revered Afro-Cuban musicians, is known for his unique style, a melodic approach to four-conga drumming identified by its percussive inventiveness, and an authentically African approach to making the drums “talk.” As a composer and band director, Pozo leads his tight ensemble on a journey that melds the traditional sounds of Cuba — rumba and son — with more modern jazz, mesmerizing audiences through both its rigor and its playfulness. Pozo and his band appear as part of the Harlem Meer Performance Festival. Charles A. Dana Discovery Center, Central Park, near 110th St., btwn. Lenox & Fifth Aves. Jul. 31, 2-4 p.m. This event is free, but RSVP at goo.gl/gTNYMY.
