Iconic Miami: Adrienne Arsht Center

Who else but NuDeco Ensemble could get Macy Grey, Wyclef Jean, Robert Glasper and Masego into an orchestra pit? Miami’s own “genre-bending” orchestra collaborates with some of the most forward-thinking musicians, composers, performers and mixed media artists to demonstrate how creatively limitless an instrumental ensemble can be. This spring, they’ll bring Grammy award-winning performances to the James L Knight Center on two occasions: Colombian pop duo Monsieur Periné on March 2nd and Derrick Hodge on April 28th for what promises to be a creatively soulful set.

Gospel is an immensely popular and influential genre of music. Free Gospel Sundays bring gospel heavy hitters to the Arsht Center to share the stage with some of Miami's rising artists. Join up to 2,000 worshipers on February 26 as the Arsht Center’s resident Miami Mass Choir delivers a soul-shaking performance with Pastor Marc Cooper. Then, on March 26, take things off site for Gospel Fest at the Little Haiti Cultural Center.

Every year in March, Spain’s greatest flamenco performers descend upon Biscayne Boulevard to strike their palms and stomp their feet, turning the Arsht Center stages into a majestic tablao. Three of the six performances expected to take place in Miami include an al fresco concert by Rafael Riqueni, considered to be one of the greatest flamenco guitarists of all time, and Alma, which is everything you imagine a flamenco show to be and more, starring acclaimed dancer and choreographer Sara Baras.

The Heritage Project was created to amplify Black voices and artists and give them a stage to shine. A series of performances, talks and events throughout the year, Heritage Fest kicks off on February 4, featuring live entertainment, family activities and a marketplace spotlighting Black creatives and entrepreneurs. Then, on April 5, hear from local poets and wordsmiths at Words of Freedom, Miami’s own Harlem Renaissance-style salon. And finally, the Juneteenth Juke Joint returns for a second year to celebrate Black culture and freedom on June 16.

Live on the Plaza takes advantage of Miami’s balmy evenings by bringing local artists and bands to perform on its vast promenade. Usually held twice per month, audience members can enjoy happy hour before the show begins, as well as food and drink throughout. On January 25, check out The French Horn Collective, a gypsy jazz and swing band, and a week later on February 2, hear “La Princesa del Son” Leslie Cartaya’s Afro-Cuban rhythm and soulful voice. On February 14, enjoy The Revolvers, South Florida’s biggest reggae band, with your Valentine’s Day sweetheart.