A unique crossover on the Caribbean coasts -
a tapestry of sounds integrating
Mexican folk dance music with African chanting,
Andean melodies, Spanish flamenco
and a piano chamber quintet,
featured by top musicians
from Mexico, Venezuela and Colombia.
Fandango traditions reinterpreted
in a new vision of 'World Music'

One Show Only

Ever since Grupo Chuchumbé's formation in 1990, this Mexican troupe has devoted itself to perpetuating the Son Jarocho traditions that originated in its home city of Veracruz. The genre is derived from old Spanish melodies and harmonic structures, which were strongly influenced by African rhythms and songs passed down among the slaves in colonial times. A marked reminder of the Spanish flamenco is also present in the 'Zapateado', a percussive dance displaying fiery energy and passion. The troupe has shared the delights of the Fandango - an informal gathering of musicians and dancers performing around a tarima (wooden platform) - with audiences worldwide. Grupo Chuchumbé represented their country at Expo 2000 in Hanover, Germany, and are considered true ambassadors of Mexico.

Sharing the same stage is the Piano Llanero Ensemble, founded by Colombian pianist/composer Claudia Calderón. The enterprising artist has collected the best 'Joropo' works for traditional harp and bandola from the Andes and the Llanos, the great plains of the Orinoco and Amazon Basins, creating a new repertoire full of delightful hints of the Spanish Baroque harpsichord. Calderón's exciting rhythmic piano - like galloping horses - combined with typical Llanero folk ensemble instruments, has established a fresh musical experience, bringing the sounds and rhythmic energy from the Llanos into a universal concert format.