Founded in 2010 by pianist Christian Tumalán and trumpeter Steffen Kuehn, Pacific Mambo Orchestra brings the Latin big band tradition to contemporary audiences. The orchestra’s repertoire spans mambo, salsa, and Latin jazz, combining original compositions with new arrangements of established works.

Drawing on the music of Tito Puente, Machito, and the great Latin orchestras, PMO pairs a full brass section with Afro-Cuban percussion, vocals, and instrumental soloists. Its recordings and arrangements reflect both that lineage and the individual voices of its musicians.

Live performance remains central to the orchestra’s identity. From Bay Area venues to Montreux, Monterey, Umbria Jazz, and Tempo Latino, PMO performs for concert audiences and dancers alike. The timeline below traces its recordings, Grammy breakthrough, and international tours.