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

The bomba and the plena connect Puerto Rico with Africa, labor and community organizing roots, and with the rest of the Caribbean basin. They are the historical and musical foundation for the international musical reputation of this small island nation.

Session 3. La Música Campesina

Session 4. Carnaval y La Rumba Cubana

Session 5. El Son y el Bolero

Subscribe to e-news or “Like” YBGFestival on Facebook

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