Identity & Resistance in Cuban & Puerto Rican Music

In working-class Afro-Latin communities, nothing surpasses music in terms of cultural expression and documentation. Self-identity, education, resistance, escapism, and the concept of our history in our own voices are all imbedded in the text and sub-text of the traditional and popular music of Afro-Latin America. In this six-week course, multi-Grammy nominee and SFJAZZ Resident Artistic Director John Santos focuses on how a wide range of Cuban and Puerto Rican music addresses these issues. Recorded music, slides and videos form the foundation for the lectures with ample Q&A.

Session 1. Raices Afro-Cubanas: Kongo, Yoruba, Abakuá

Session 2. La Bomba y La Plena Puertorriqueña

Session 3. La Música Campesina

Country music of rural origin has deep Spanish roots, yet plays a key role in the creolization of Cuban and Puerto Rican society. It is a common denominator that connects the two islands with most of Latin America.

Session 4. Carnaval y La Rumba Cubana

Session 5. El Son y el Bolero

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Update Note: This lecture series takes place off-site, not at Yerba Buena Gardens. The August 27, 2014 session will be held at the California Historical Society on Mission Street near 3rd Street.

Co-Presented with