Traveling exhibition celebrates Latin music in US

A lively 0rchestra playing Latin music and dressed in traditional Cuban guayaberas filled the History Miami museum on Tuesday in Miami, Fla. as many spectators enjoyed the company of iconic artists such as Celia Cruz, Selena Quintanilla and Tito Puentes.

That, and more, is showcased at the “American Sabor: Latinos in U.S. Popular Music” traveling exhibition.

“American Sabor,” which is making its pit stop in the sunshine state from August to October, highlights the musical contributions of Hispanic-Americans from the 1940s to the present by exploring social history and individual creativity.

It also showcases those Latino musicians who have had a profound influence on traditional genres of music in the United States, such as jazz, hip-hop, blues and rock ‘n’ roll.

The educational experience is definitely one for those “Baby Boomers” and “Generation X” folks who love the authentic salsa tunes of Fania All-Stars or the exhilarating guitar riffs of Carlos Santana.

It’s a musical and knowledgeable journey for Millenials, also, considering that many contemporary artists such as Daddy Yankee and Ricky Martin form part of the exhibition.

“American Sabor is about music, but it’s also about young people and people who enjoy music,” Project Manager Evelyn Figueroa told VOXXI. “Young people will learn about these important pioneers that dedicated their lives to create a music tradition that transcends time and generations.”

Figueroa expressed that most of the artists showcased in the exhibition have opened doors to the new generations. For example urban duo Calle 13, she emphasized, who follow the path of protest music in the 1970s.

“Music is diverse, extremely hybrid, and geared towards new expressions. It allows the young generation to express themselves in a musical way,” she said.

The 2,500-square-foot showcase unites artists such as Willy Chirino, Los Lobos, Gloria Estefan, Los Tigres del Norte and more, who have all been selected for their passion and commitment to Latino music.

“That’s what’s important in ‘American Sabor,’ the artists in this exhibition created music for the people,” Figueroa said. “Music is a way to respect culture and language.”

The exhibition is divided into five sections which represent the major centers of Latino music production –New York City, San Antonio, San Francisco, Miami and Los Angeles.

It also features guided listening stations and two exclusive films, featuring legends such as Johnny Pacheco and Willie Colon.

But the true celebration of Latin music can not be complete without the “American Sabor” jukebox inviting visitor’s to strut their best moves on the exhibition’s dance floor.

“American Sabor: Latinos in the U.S. Popular Music” will run from August 6th to October 26th at History Miami Museum in Miami, Fla.

The national exhibition tour will travel to museums and cultural centers in 12 cities through 2015.