Événement

FIRST FRIDAY Music Series @ Galeria West with MEXICO BEYOND MARIACHI

Mexico Beyond Mariachi is an intimate and candid showcase of the vast cultural expression that exists beyond the popular image of the "Mariachi" musician. Each region of this diverse land has its own rituals, myths, celebrations and music. The audience is treated to a performance that reminds one of a Mexican mercado or market, filled with colors, flavors, sights and sounds the viewer perhaps has never experienced before. From the mysterious drums, flutes, conch shells and dancing musicians of the pre-Hispanic era, to the fascinating fusion of rhythms and harmonies that possess roots extending to Spain and Africa come travel with us into a circle of cultural expedition as we are taken on a journey that begins with the conquest and leads us to the present day. Come join founder and artistic director Alda Reuter and the members of "Mexico Beyond Mariachi" as this special group of professional performers and teaching artists share their love for Mexican art and expression in this fascinating concert.
Alda comes from a family of artists who celebrate the culture and traditions of Latin America. Her grandfather, Walter Reuter is an internationally recognized
photographer. Her father, Dr. Jas Reuter was a pioneer in the field of ethnomusicology having published numerous books. Being exposed to different cultures at an early age, she developed a lasting interest in the performing arts. Her professional career has included the styles of Jazz, Afro-Cuban, Flamenco and Mexican Folkloric Dance. Also trained in music, Alda is an accomplished percussionist and has appeared with major artists in Mexico, Central America and the U.S. She is always exploring the close relationship between music and dance. Upon her arrival in NYC she became part of the renowned female Afro Caribbean dance and percussion ensemble Retumba. As co-founder of Ballet Fiesta Mexicana Ybarra and Fiesta Flamenca she performs in and produces major cultural festivals and events.
Command of the Spanish language is not required to enjoy this unique theatrical journey to our neighbors to the south. ¡Viva México!