Editor's Note: Read the related story--
When:
Saturday, June 29, 6–9:30 p.m.
Where:
Spirit of Music Garden
Grant Park, 601 S. Michigan Ave.
Chicago
Here, Picture This Post (PTP) asks Charangueo(Ch) to break down where their sound for the June 29 SummerDance comes from
(PTP) Please tell Picture this Post readers about your music.
(Ch) Charangueo is an ensemble that came out of Cuba featuring the unique sound of the french flute and violin flute and violins. The Cuban Charanga ensemble came from the eastern part of Cuba and became famous in the 1940's and 50's. In the space of 120 years, the modern Charanga was born by adding elements of Africa, Spain, and Cuba transforming it into an electric mix of cultures and one of the worlds most exciting dance genres.
Charangueo is the only band in the Midwest that plays this traditional music from the famous 40's, and 50's which came from Cuba, and 60's and 70's that is considered "The New York" style. This ensemble plays a wide range of Afro-Cuban Jazz styles from Cha-Cha-Cha, Guaguanco, Danzon, Guajira, Guaracha, Mambo and Son.
When did your group start playing together and how and when do you rehearse?
We all have day jobs for the most part. Charangueo has been together for about six years since Rene Avila started the group. Because he studied classical music throughout his life, he was influenced by Victor Parra's Mambo Express radio show.
How many musicians are in your group and what instruments do they play?
Typically we have eight musicians consisting of one flute, two violins, piano, bass, congas, timbal ,and guiro- and singing.
Have you performed at Summer Dance before?
Yes we played a few times and have adapted to strictly dance tunes for out outdoor shows.
Editor’s Note: To find out more visit @Charangueo on Facebook. And, listen to Charangueo founder Rene Avila sometimes host The Mambo Show on Sunday's at 90.9FM WDCB, Chicago's Home for Jazz.
Tickets:
Free! No tickets needed!
Photos courtesy of Charangueo
