Afro-Peruvian song-and-dance ensemble Peru Negro will make its San Diego debut on Feb. 6 at the Ray and Joan Kroc Corps Community Center Performing Arts Center.

The Afro-Peruvian genre started during the 1800s when Africans were brought to the Pacific coast of Peru as slaves. The slaves played empty fruit crates called cajones and cajitas, as well as quijadas de burros (the side of a dried-out donkey jawbone) with sticks and the palms of their hands, using them as makeshift instruments. Their goal was to preserve their culture and raise morale with music, rhythm and dance.

In 1969, more than a century after the abolition of slavery, the late Ronaldo Campos de la Colina established Peru Negro. Ronaldo's son, Ronny Campos, took over for his father and is now head of the 30-person group, recognized for its colorful costumes, folkloric dances and moving verses.

"It started with the baile de burla (the mock dance)," said Campos from his home in Peru. "Slave masters would often have elegant gatherings where classic dance steps were demonstrated in front of the slaves. The slaves would later convene and mock their oppressors behind closed doors.

"Little by little, we've innovated our music with the addition of instruments such as the violin and flute. However, I've made it a point to preserve my father's teaching style and work ethic."

The group released its first CD, "Sangre de un Don: Herencia Afro Peruana / The Blood of a Don: Afro-Peruvian Heritage" in 2001. In addition to its current U.S. tour, which also includes stops in Los Angeles, San Francisco, New York, Boston and Miami, the ensemble is working on another CD.

Peru Negro will perform at 7:30 p.m. on Feb. 6 at the center, 6845 University Ave., San Diego. Tickets are $25 and can be purchased at (619) 230-1190 or (858) 452-9802. Information: www.perunegro.org.