Island Music Center and Village Music are collaborating to create “An Uncommon Evening,” a monthly concert and dance held at IMC. The music is provided by Grupo Meridional, which specializes in Caribbean, Cuban and Brazilian music.

“First of all, this is an opportunity to have a “city” quality night out without having to suit up and go into the city,” said organizer, Grupo Meridional band leader and Village Music owner Alan Simcoe.

The event doubles as an open house for IMC to showcase its performance space, community music school facility and programs to the public. IMC Board President Bill Branley will be on hand to give tours of the center.

Grupo Meridional also conducts an open rehearsal format workshop during the day of the event. Workshop participants are invited to play the pieces they learn alongside Grupo at the evening concert.

“Some people were able to sneak up and play those tunes,” Simcoe said.

Lovers of Latin music are encouraged to get up and dance whether they know the salsa or not.

“We’ll take your basic Grateful Dead freeform dancers, too,” Simcoe said.

The next “Uncommon Evening” is from 7:30-10 p.m. Feb 19 at Island Music Center, 10598 Valley Rd.

The $10 admission includes hors d’ouevres from Pan D’Amore.

The workshop is from 2-4 p.m. at the center. Tuition is $25. Advance reservations are needed for the workshop.

For more information, visit www.islandmusic.org, or call 780-6911 or 842-4120.