2003 release: "Como Luna"

"By releasing this country record in Spanish I feel that I am paying homage to this great country as well as to my father"

Venezuela-born country music singer Linda Bandry dropped me a line recently from her home in Florida. To learn about Linda, watch the clips above and read the bio on her web site.

Excerpts:

“Until I was 16 years old I didn’t listen to any other kind of music and I actually thought that country music originated in Venezuela. I would wake up in the morning to the roosters crowing and the beautiful melody of Patsy Montana’s “Cowboy’s Sweetheart.”

Her father, Elias Bandry, was fascinated by bluegrass music and one day asked her to make Spanish versions of his favorites songs so that he could understand them. “By doing this, I realized that I could write my own songs, and Daddy loved hearing me sing them.”

At just 8 years old, Linda joined 5 other girls in a singing group called the “Super Youngs”. They sang Linda’s songs and even some of Dolly Parton’s and Kenny Rogers’ songs everywhere and anywhere they could.
...
Linda arrived in the United States in 1998, and her primary goal was to record an album of original country songs in Spanish. With God’s grace, help from Najib Seguias and the talent of her friend, guitarist and producer Ed Gonzalez, her dream came true in May of 2003. Among the musicians integral to the album entitled “COMO LUNA” (Like the Moon), are Alan Kendall (Pedal Steel), David Scully (Guitars) and John Lengel (Drums).

“Only those who live and love country music can actually convey the nuances specific to the genre.” “By releasing this country record in Spanish I feel that I am paying homage to this great country as well as to my father.”

Read more in the full bio here.

Labels: country music, entertainment, spanish, venezuela

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Monitoring airwaves with a "portable people meter," Arbitron's methodology questioned

Are there more Hispanic country music fans out there than previously thought?

The Federal Communications Commission is investigating whether minority radio listeners are undercounted by the tracking firm Arbitron, according to this story in the Washington Post.

The investigation centers around the use of a new tracking system employed by Arbitron (and covered by Wired in 2007), which requires the listener being tracked to wear a device that constantly monitors the airwaves:

Arbitron has recently replaced its diary-based rating system in certain markets with the PPM [portable people meter] system. According to Arbitron, the PPM is a mobile-phone-sized device that consumers wear throughout the day. The PPM detects inaudible identification codes that are embedded in the audio of certain programming to which the consumer is exposed. An encoder at the programming or distribution source inserts the inaudible identification codes. In addition, a station monitor is installed at the programming source to ensure audio content is encoded properly. At the end of each day, each survey participant places the PPM device in a base station to recharge the battery and to send collected codes to a household collection device known as a “hub.” The household hub collects the codes from all the base stations in the survey household and transmits them to Arbitron.

The concerns of the coalition, now made more formal by the FCC, are that Arbitron uses the PPMs in a way that underrepresents minorities, with the consequence that "undercounting could particularly affect the ratings of local, urban-formatted radio stations that broadcast programming of interest to African-American and Hispanic audiences."

Arbitron's response is that "samples effectively represent Blacks and Hispanics in the 18-34 age group, and across other factors such as geographic location and language preferences." Arbitron published this "Hispanic Radio Today" report in 2008.

Read the FCC's official Notice of Inquiry here.

From the comments of FCC officials at fcc.gov, it appears the investigation does not presume that the concerns raised are in fact correct, but are serious enough to flesh out until they are confirmed or rebutted.

Nashville's country music industry has been trying to attract Hispanic audiences to country music (see this story for background, or see the Country Music page on this site). The FCC investigation could reveal that the numbers of Hispanic listeners have been undercounted.

Here are the reasons why minority radio representatives think the Auditron PPM methods are flawed:

[O]nly five to six percent of the PPM sample is comprised of cell-phone-only households, while a significant and growing percentage of young adults and Hispanics and African-Americans live in cell-phone-only households.8 PPMC asserts that 19.3 percent of Hispanic households and 18.3 percent of African-American households are cell-phone-only, whereas 12.9 percent of non-Hispanic white households are cell-phone-only.9 Among other things, PPMC also complains that: (1) PPM has a 66 percent smaller sample size than the diary, often making it impossible to target age or gender subsets of minority audiences because standard industry metrics require at least 30 respondents in a cell to run ratings data; (2) PPM samples are not built using street addresses, and therefore fail to ensure statistically representative inclusion of cell-phone-only households; (3) young minorities are reluctant to carry visible PPMs; (4) Hispanic PPM recruitment methods skew toward English-dominant persons because potential panelists are identified by origin rather than by language; (5) PPM response and compliance rates fall below industry norms; (6) PPMs record exposure to radio signals, but they do not capture listener loyalty, which is high among minorities; (7) PPM reports provide less granular data in terms of geography; (8) PPM reports do not contain income data, country of origin data, or data that accounts sufficiently for language preferences;and (9) PPM panelists may be corrupted more easily by radio personnel because the PPM device often visibly identifies them and their expected participation is two years instead of the usual one-week participation in the diary system.

Photo by Fabrizio Sciami. Licensed under Creative Commons.

Labels: business, country music, music

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Manny Cuevas in-store appearance 1-2pm tomorrow

Doors opened last Thursday at Opry Originals: The Shop On Broadway

"Indelible mark on country music fashion for more than four decades"

"They're not going to let me go wild"

Nashville's legendary clothier Manuel was at the launch of a new Opry retail store in downtown Nashville yesterday. Not only did Manuel introduce a new clothing line designed exclusively for the Opry, but Channel 5 reports here that he also designed the ribbon that was cut at the ceremony, "complete with rhinestones."

Manuel told NewsChannel5 that his Opry designs are toned down from what he regularly produces (maybe because what he regular produces are museum quality):

"You will find similar things, but not exactly the other, the classic Manuel garb. ... We're doing it with the Grand Ole Opry, and we have to adjust to that. Yes. They're not gonna let me go wild, I'm telling you."

Nonetheless, the Opry folks are calling the new line "exciting." Here is the press release from Opry.com:

Opry Originals: The Shop On Broadway opened in the heart of downtown Nashville’s famed Lower Broadway area at 300 Broadway Thursday, April 16. An official rhinestone-studded ribbon-cutting ceremony was held on Monday, April 20 (video here) and is being followed by a week of grand opening events.

Inspired by a design concept the designers deem “Country Archeology,” the free-standing, 5,000 square-foot store brings together the iconic roots of the Grand Ole Opry and country music’s contemporary culture in an eclectic collection of old and new, brought to life through media, graphic imagery, and re-claimed materials and finishes. Reminiscent of a market, the space encourages hands-on interaction and invite guests to discover and take home their own piece of the Opry lifestyle.

The store showcases an extensive line of lifestyle products including Opry-branded jeans, tops, and boots; gifts; local artisan merchandise; a new Opry Country Kitchen line of food products; dinnerware and home furnishings. The store also features entertainment including artist appearances and book/record signings as well as listening stations, photo opportunities, and a select food and beverage offering.

Included among the store’s apparel offerings is an “Opry by Manuel” collection of jackets, shirts, and jeans designed exclusively for the Opry by legendary clothier Manuel, who has made an indelible mark on country music fashion for more than four decades.

“Opry Originals allows us to fully celebrate the country lifestyle,” said Steve Buchanan, Gaylord Entertainment senior vice president of media and entertainment. “We will be able to offer a wide range of apparel including the exciting new ‘Opry by Manuel’ line and introduce new merchandise categories for the Opry including artisan/craft products and home décor items.”

“We expect the new store, with its one-of-kind merchandise offerings and uniquely-Nashville experiences to become one of downtown Nashville’s premier destinations,” Buchanan said. More than half a million guests visited the Opry’s store located within the Grand Ole Opry House in 2008.

“Opry Originals is the ultimate marriage of heritage and hip-factor, a celebration of both the history and future of country music in a style we call ‘Country Cool,’” said Paul Lechleiter, Chief Creative Officer of FRCH Design Worldwide, Cincinnati, Ohio, designer of the new store.

The 300 Broadway structure was built circa 1911 as the home of the Broadway National Bank. It housed banking institutions until 1987 and has been occupied by R.C. Mathews and The Mathews Co. since 1991.

Grand Opening Week Celebration Schedule for the remainder of the week

Grand Opening Week Hours:
Tuesday – Wednesday: 10:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Thursday: 10:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Friday – Saturday: 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 p.m.
Sunday: 10:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.

Tuesday, April 21
5:30 – 6:30 p.m. Point of Grace In-Store Appearance
Dove Award-nominees Point of Grace celebrate GMA Music Week by signing copies of the group’s CD How Do You Live (Deluxe Edition) at Opry Originals before an appearance at the Grand Ole Opry’s Songs Of Faith Signature Show at the historic Ryman Auditorium.

Wednesday, April 22
1:00 - 2:00 p.m. Manny Cuevas In-Store Appearance
Manny Cuevas, designer of Opry Originals’ new Opry by Manuel clothing line, will be in store signing items from the collection.

Thursday, April 23
9:00 p.m. Lorrie Morgan In-Store Appearance
Opry Originals extends it regular Thursday night hours to welcome Lorrie Morgan signing copies of her latest CD I Walk Alone following her appearance at Opry Country Classics at the Ryman Auditorium.

Friday, April 24
10:00 a.m. Opry Originals welcomes Country Music Marathon participants to town with a free headband to the first 200 persons who race in showing their marathon registration.
10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. 650 WSM Live Broadcast

Labels: business, country music, events, fashion

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Homage to Emilio and Rick Trevino, Freddy Fender and Johnny Rodriguez

Melissa Lawson takes top slot

Gabe Garcia finished as runner-up in this season's Nashville Star, becoming the second Hispanic contestant to do so in the history of the show, after John Arthur Martinez was runner-up in Season 2. Melissa Lawson took the top slot this year, edging out Garcia.

Garcia talked with RealityTVWorld.com about what it means for him to be a Hispanic artist in the country music business:

"It's great. It's just an honor to be a representative and be among the few Hispanic artists of the world," Garcia told reporters. "Emilio and Rick Trevino, Freddy Fender and Johnny Rodriguez -- I have some big shoes to fill there with these guys. But it's just great. I'm just here to represent all our country fans, too."

Despite being proud of his roots, Garcia said he doesn't expect to be a crossover artist.

"I don't think I would do a crossover thing but I would definitely throw maybe like a bilingual song in an album or something," he said. "I'm really going to keep it country and as best as possible."

Labels: arts, awards, business, country music

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Gabe Garcia made it into the top 3 of Nashville Star in last night's elimination episode. Next week's season finale will determine the winner.

A video featured Gabe returning to his hometown of Lytle, Texas, where a crowd including a mariachi band met him at the airport, an extravagant-for-Lytle parade culminated in the mayor awarding Gabe the key to the city, and a crowd of 10,000 came out for an evening concert.

All the judges had good things to say about Garcia. Judge John Rich pointed out how Garcia could be - or already is - something special for country music: a bridge to Hispanic fans.

No matter what the results are next week, Garcia will be on the Nashville Star tour this fall.

(Anyone wanting to send me tickets to next week's taping at Opryland can contact me here.)

Image: NBC

Labels: arts, country music, entertainment

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Texans dominate remaining field

Country music's new Hispanic voice?

Gabe Garcia grabbed a Top 4 spot Monday night on Nashville Star, according to BuddyTV.com:

The last automatic finalist of the night was Gabe Garcia, who is singing a song called “Lost Weekend.” The song is extremely nostalgic, sentimental, about a couple trying to relive their past, reignite the spark they used to have. It's either poignant or horribly shlock-y – I can't decide. It's got a funky little vibe, and the chorus is somewhat catchy. Sounds exactly like something you'd hear on country radio. The judges enjoy it, but Rich tells Gabe to really improve his connection with the audience.

The other three remaining finalists are Coffey Anderson (Bangs, TX), Melissa Lawson (Arlington, TX), and Shawn Mayer (May City, IA). Garcia is from Lytle, Texas.

For more stories about the buzz in the country music industry about the potential of Hispanic artists and fans, read the new country music page on HispanicNashville.com.

Image source: Nashville Star

Labels: arts, country music

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Last night's episode of Nashville Star Season 6 saw contestant Gabe Garcia survive another week, putting him among the top 6 of 12 finalists. By making it this far, Garcia has passed Melanie Torres' seventh-place finish in Season Four.

Jeff Sampson of BuddyTV.com said that Garcia's performance for the night lacked "stage charisma," but that the judges and audience loved him:

Gabe Garcia is safe and will be singing Keith Urban's “Somebody Like You.” He apparently took dance lessons so that he could loosen up more on stage. He sings well but still lacks stage charisma, in my opinion. The audience and judges loved him though.

Also, Gabe has created this new Facebook page for his fans.

Photo source: NashvilleStar.com

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"Bringing in some performing ability to go along with his great country singing" -BuddyTv.com

Gabe Garcia made it past the elimination round of tonight's Nashville Star on NBC. This puts Gabe into the top eight contestants; he needs to make it to the top six to pass Melanie Torres' seventh-place finish in Season Four. Beating John Arthur Martinez's second-place Season Two finish would give Garcia the top spot this year.

Read the full recap of tonight's episode at buddytv.com:

Gabe is naturally glad to see his family and comes on to perform “Wanted Dead or Alive” and “The Fireman.” The judges thought he was great, finally bringing in some performing ability to go along with his great country singing.

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John Rich: "Your voice is pure, pure, pure, great country music."

The sixth season of Nashville Star (Mondays at 8pm on NBC) features Gabe Garcia of Lytle, Texas as one of the contestants. Nashville Star is a country music single-elimination competition similar to American Idol and ran on the USA Network from 2003-2007 before moving to NBC this year. Gabe has already survived two weeks of elimination, with the judges raving about his voice. Judge John Rich said, "your voice is pure, pure, pure, great country music right there."

Hispanic country music singers and Hispanic country music audiences have been the El Dorado of the country music business in recent years, with the great reward never quite materializing. Nashville Star has previously featured two Hispanic contestants (John Arthur Martinez finished second in Season 1 and Melanie Torres finished seventh in Season 4), and CMT's Gone Country show awarded Julio Iglesias Jr. its top spot earlier this year. In 2007, the corporate side of the business commissioned a report on the potential of the Hispanic market (see here for more details on all of the above).

From Gabe's Nashville Star profile:

Gabe is proud of his roots and wants to inspire other Hispanics to pursue a career in country music, just as Rick Trevino inspired him. The ultimate Tex-Mex cowboy, Gabe left San Antonio and his job of 10 years after his father passed away last October. He's now following his dream and he's not turning back. With his family's support, Gabe wants to be the next "Nashville Star" with his mother cheering him on from the audience.

From the comments on a YouTube video featuring Gabe's Nashville Star appearances:

this guy is gonna be great Cant wait to see his performance tonight on NBC !!!!! NASHVILLE STAR 6 ROCKS
...
Gabe is great!! I never knew this boy could sing! Ohhh wow!! They were all dancing to his music! cool
...
Truth be told. He's the best. He's down to earth and he just loves everybody. He's a good friend of mine and my favorite artist from South Texas as well. Rock on buddy.

From Gabe's web site:

Gabe Garcia sings with a maturity and sound far beyond his 28 years. As a '98 graduate of Lytle High School, it was evident Gabe and his aspiring voice would touch the hearts of country music fans throughout south and central Texas.

Raised in Lytle by Mr. and Mrs. Juan Garcia Sr. and brother Juan Jr., Gabriel was influenced early on by artists such as Merle Haggard, Rick Trevino, and George Strait. He has opened for various well known country artists such as Blackhawk, Sherrie Austin, Ray Price, Kitty Wells, Richochet, and even performed for George W. Bush.

Among the many of his local and state honors, Gabe and his band recently won the South Texas State Championship in the Colgate Country Showdown. In 1997 Gabe won the 1997 Y100 Battle of the Bands and was the featured performer two consecutive years at the National FFA Convention. According to Wiley Alexander, Gabe is a personable and super-talented icon who pays great tribute to country music.

Labels: arts, country music

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This Tennessean article contains its own roundup of Cinco de Mayo events at Agave Tequila Lounge, Lot 7, Sam's Place Sports Bar and Grill, The French Quarter Cafe, Lime, and Alleycat Lounge.

Then there's these other events:

The Fiesta Belmont on May 3, which the Tennessee Hispanic Chamber of Commerce* is sponsoring:

FIESTA BELMONT is a one day event that will be held at the campus of Belmont University on Saturday May 3 from 11 AM to 7 PM. This family oriented event will have food stands as well as LIVE MUSIC interpreted by several of our most prominent Hispanic performers including Belmont Salsa All-Stars, San Rafael Band, Ocho Treinta, Carlos Negron & Trabuko as well as our local Mexican Folkloric Dance Group. There will be games for children and most of all a wonderful opportunity to meet new friends and celebrate together our Cinco de Mayo.

There is a Cinco de Mayo Fair running now through Sunday May 4 at the Nashville Fairgrounds.

The Middle TN Hispanic Democrats (MTHD) are hosting a Cinco de Mayo Celebration and Fundraiser ($25 donation appreciated) on May 5 at 5:30pm. Contact info@mtnhd.org for details.

The Nashville Area Hispanic Chamber of Commerce* sent more details about the French Quarter event listed in the Tennessean article above:

Every year on the fifth of May, party-goers look for the most unique venues to commemorate Mexican heritage and pride with festive music, décor, and drinks. This year, Nashvillians are in for a treat when Cerrito takes the stage at the French Quarter Café at 7:30 PM for his celebratory Spanish-English performance, and they can feel great about supporting the event as all proceeds from tickets will be donated to the "Make A Wish Foundation" in the hopes of fulfilling the dreams of terminally ill children.

"Cinco de Mayo is such a great time of year to show appreciation for Spanish-influenced music, and we are really looking forward to putting on a great show," says Cerrito.

"We are so delighted to celebrate Cinco De Mayo with Cerrito, and help grant a wish in the process.

Events like this are a wonderful opportunity to raise awareness and support for wish kids in the 38 counties that we serve," says Michelle Rosen with Make a Wish Foundation of Middle Tennessee.Make a Wish will have a child on-site that will personally benefit from the donations and share the story behind their wish.

Cerrito became immersed in the Spanish-English music scene while performing for years with legendary flamenco guitarist Charo. Cerrito then moved on to San Antonio, TX where he headlined his own show at the Arneson River Theatre on the river performing traditional country music (in English and Spanish) in front of ravenous audiences who seemed to want more. Cerrito found his place in the Country Music scene.

Cerrito's interest and success in learning to translate traditional country music to the Spanish language opened doors to a number of opportunities. Renowned Nashville producer Byron Gallimore approached Cerrito with the request to translate Tim McGraw's hit record "Re-fried Dreams," and the Country Music Association, Nashville, solicited him to perform on stage at the first "Fiesta Nashville" show--Fan Fair 2001.

Fans are guaranteed an evening full of entertainment, some culture, as well as some great prizes for their donation at the door!

For more information, please visit
www.cerritomusic.com

Labels: country music, english, events, spanish

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Angry listeners don't see through prank and bemoan supposed change

A Nashville radio personality tested the limits of the April Fools' art form with a fake format change supposedly designed to attract Spanish-speaking listeners. CMT's Country Music Blog describes the April Fools' joke crafted by WSIX's Gerry House this year, which was that the country music station would try to broaden its listener base by playing some Spanish-language songs in the rotation.

After issuing the phony announcement and playing some songs en español, here is what happened:

House opened his phone lines and listeners started calling in. Did they ever. And most of them were angry. Angry that another culture was being "forced" on them. Vowed to leave the station and never return. Forget the fact that Spanish-language singers and writers are a big part of country music history. I guess House waited too long to remind his listeners that it was April Fool's Day. Oh - and then he played the new single by Gone Country winner Julio Iglesias Jr. and invited listeners to vote on that song.

This particular joke comes during an increasing push to fight negativity against Hispanics, African-Americans, immigrants, and/or Spanish-speakers (see this round-up or today's Tennessean story). According to this article about April Fools Day in the Altoona (PA) Mirror, an artful prank does two things: it builds comraderie, and it doesn't hurt anyone. Reader comments on the CMT Country Music blog post criticize both House and his listeners for the negativity generated by the stunt.

As the CMT blog points out, however, the fake news at the heart of the prank was not entirely unimaginable, since Spanish-language songs are a part of country music's past and present. See previous Hispanic Nashville Notebook stories on Freddy Fender and Julio Iglesia's Gone Country win.

Labels: arts, country music, negativity, spanish

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Judge John Rich: "About half my friends were Spanish kids - Mexican kids - and their first language was Spanish"

The Canadian Press is one of many international sources to report the newly minted Latin/country crossover star that is Julio Iglesias, Jr., who earned that title with his win of the Nashville-based reality show "Gone Country." Airing on CMT, the show featured an American-Idol-style showdown of various non-country artists taking a stab at country music, including Iglesias, Jr. On his way to victory, the Madrid-born, Miami-raised crooner stopped by Manuel's Nashville shop to pick up some bona fide country duds (episode info here).

Judge John Rich of Big & Rich said in his blog that he picked Iglesias because of his "X Factor" with both male and female fans, but also because of the missing Hispanic element in modern country music:

I think, that Julio Iglesias Jr. brings an element to country music that does not exist -- and that being the Spanish-English element. I remember growing up in Texas and hearing Johnny Rodriguez on my radio station, and about half my friends were Spanish kids -- Mexican kids -- and their first language was Spanish. They were all my buddies. I remember Johnny Rodriguez turning them on to country music. They liked it, but it wasn't something they completely related to until they saw Johnny Rodriguez.

Well, I think, it's been 30 years since that, and I think it's time we pay attention to that audience again. I see Spanish-speaking people coming to Big & Rich shows by the hundreds and thousands, depending on the part of the country that we're in, and right now, there's nobody in our format speaking to that audience.

Big & Rich have included bilingual Spanish/English raps on at least one album before, and Hispanic artists have done fairly well on at least other country music reality show - see John Arthur Martinez' second place finish and Melanie Torres' top-ten spot on Nashville Star. The country music industry has commissioned reports and engaging in soul-searching and head-scratching about what Hispanic interest in country music could mean for the business.

Julio Iglesias, Jr.'s winning Gone Country video performance, which includes bilingual English/Spanish lyrics, is here.

Labels: arts, business, country music, english, immigrants, mexico, spain, spanish

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Dalia Garcia, Richie Flores, Jesus Diaz, Lalo Davila, Glen Caruba, Horacio "El Negro" Hernandez

MTSU tonight

"Cuban Fire" tomorrow: joint performance with Nashville Jazz Orchestra at Vanderbilt

Eric Moreno, president of the Hispanic Student Association at MTSU, wrote in to mention "several events going on involving a Salsa Band headed up by MTSU's own Lalo Davila, [in] which he is featuring very famous percussionists who have played with several amazing acts throughout the Latin music industry. He will be hosting a tribute to Celia Cruz and Tito Puente in a concert in Murfreesboro." The music comes to Murfreesboro tonight and to Nashville tomorrow night.

The MTSU tribute is tonight, Thursday October 18, at 9pm at Sweetwater. There is a $7 cover charge and no one under 21 will be admitted.

Details of the Nashville event are below:

A NIGHT OF EXPLOSIVE SALSA AND JAZZ
NASHVILLE JAZZ ORCHESTRA PLAYS "CUBAN FIRE" OCT. 19
WITH GUEST ARTISTS RICHIE FLORES, JESUS DIAZ, DALIA GARCIA AND SPECIAL GUEST HORACIO “EL NEGRO” HERNANDEZ

The Blair School of Music at Vanderbilt University will host "CUBAN FIRE", a night of explosive salsa and jazz by the NASHVILLE JAZZ ORCHESTRA in the Martha Rivers Ingram Center for the Performing Arts on Friday, Oct. 19, 2007, at 7:30pm and 9:30pm. Both concerts will feature the classic Latin jazz music of Tito Puente, Celia Cruz, Arturo Sandoval, and others climaxed by selections from Stan Kenton's famous 1956 Latin jazz opus "Cuban Fire Suite". A special 27-piece edition of the NJO, led by Director JIM WILLIAMSON will take the stage, including vocals by DALIA GARCIA, and guest percussionists Pearl Recording Artists RICHIE FLORES, JESUS DIAZ, LALO DAVILA, GLEN CARUBA, and HORACIO “EL NEGRO” HERNANDEZ, acknowledged as the top Latin drumset player in the world today. With NJO drummer Bob Mater also being a Pearl Recording Artist, the NJO will have an all-Pearl percussion section, and Pearl Drums USA will be a co-sponsor for this event. Guest conductor for the "Cuban Fire Suite" will be ROBIN P. FOUNTAIN, Professor of Conducting at Blair School of Music where the NJO is "Artist in Residence". Admission to either concert is $20 general admission, $15 for seniors, VU faculty and staff, and $10 for students. Tickets are available from Blair or band members; or at the Ingram Center box office the night of the performance.

THE ARTISTS

HORACIO HERNANDEZ, given the name “El Negro” at birth, was already a master studio and touring percussionist in his native Havana when he escaped Cuba to live in Italy in 1995. Two years later he came to the US, where top Latin jazz musicians like Paquito D’Rivera and Michel Camilo began using him. Word quickly spread of his explosive virtuosity in both Latin and jazz idioms, and he has worked non-stop since. From the Latin sounds of Santana, Los Hombres Caliente, and Tito Puente, to the pop of Paul Simon, to the progressive jazz of Dizzy Gillespie and Joanne Brackeen, Horacio’s universal percussive abilities have already made him a drum legend with dozens of videos, books, and articles published about him. www.elnegro.com

RICHIE FLORES was born in Brooklyn but raised in Puerto Rico, and began playing congas at the age of 5. In a few years he was playing with top groups like El Gran Combo and Batacumbele. Moving back to New York, he joined Eddie Palmieri at the age of 17. He also works with David Sanchez, Dave Samuels, and a host of Latin Jazz greats.

JESUS DIAZ arrived in the San Francisco bay area from Cuba in 1980. His talent as percussionist, arranger, and vocalist have kept him working with top artists like Carlos Santana, Dizzy Gillespie, Pete Escovedo & Sheila E, and the Caribbean Jazz Project ever since. As an educator, he does numerous clinics and workshops, and has several instructional videos and books as a member of "Talking Drums". www.bombomusic.com

From Nashville, Pearl Recording Artists LALO DAVILA and GLEN CARUBA will complete the expanded percussion section. Davila is co-leader and vocalist of Music City's popular Latin jazz band, "Orkesta Eme Pe", Director of Percussion Studies at MTSU, and leader of the MTSU Salsa Band and Percussion Ensemble. Caruba is a percussionist and teacher, author of several books and DVDs, and has worked with Jimmy Buffet, Barry Manilow, the Mavericks, and "Orkesta Eme Pe". www.lalodavila.com www.pearldrums.com

DALIA GARCIA, from Madrid, Spain, is an award-winning singer, songwriter, and actress. After being crowned Miss South Carolina, she toured for 8 years with Julio Iglesias, performing in 8 of his videos, and appeared in the movie "Lycanthrope". Her singing and songwriting has dominated several charts on MP3.com, and she appears across the US with Al Delory & Salsa En Nashville, and others. www.daliamusic.com

THE MUSIC

STAN KENTON led one of the most famous jazz big bands from 1941 to 1979. One of its seminal works was the 1956 "Cuban Fire Suite" by composer Johnny Richards. At the time, the marriage of American swing music and traditional Afro-Cuban music into a form called Latin jazz was little more than a decade old. Richards was of Latin heritage (born John Cascales), his work encouraged more use of Latin idioms in big bands, and musicians in the Latin jazz movement continue to site the Cuban Fire album as an influence and inspiration.

TITO PUENTE, master percussionist and arranger, was the most popular and influential of the "Mambo Kings", the great bandleaders who created Latin jazz in the 40's. "El Rey" (The King) worked from 1937 to 2000, recording well over 100 albums. His fame skyrocketed in the 50's dance craze for mambo and cha-cha, and his "Oye Como Va" was a huge hit. He won 5 Grammys, is in the Hispanic Hall of Fame and the Jazz Hall of Fame, has a star on Hollywood's Walk of Fame, and received a Smithsonian Lifetime Achievement Award.

CELIA CRUZ is the best-known and most influential female figure in Cuban music, with 23 gold albums and the title "La guarachera de Cuba". Joining Cuba's renowned Sonora Matancera orchestra, she became a star all over Latin America in the early 50's. In 1960 she moved to the US to pursue a solo career. Two decades of work with Tito Puente and the Fania All-Stars made her even more famous, and she continued touring the world in the 80's and 90's, winning a Grammy in 1990.

ARTURO SANDOVAL, composer and bandleader, was a virtuoso trumpeter in his native Cuba in the 70's and 80's. A master of Afro-Cuban music and influenced by bop trumpeter Dizzy Gillespie, he became a leading exponent of modern Latin jazz upon his defection from Cuba in 1990. His band and bravura trumpet style were featured with the Nashville Symphony in 2001.

The Oct. 19 “Cuban Fire” concert is the first event in the NJO's 2007/2008 concert season as "Artist in Residence" at Blair School of Music. Founded in 1996 by Director Jim Williamson, the NJO is a 501 (c)(3) not-for-profit organization dedicated to perpetuating big band jazz. With 17 of Nashville's top session and jazz players, they play clubs and jazz festivals, often with guest artists like Randy Brecker, Lou Marini, Donald Brown, Bob Kurnow, Annie Sellick, and Connye Florance. Later concerts in the series include Dec. 1 - NJO presents David "Fathead" Newman in association with the Country Music Hall of Fame's Ray Charles Exhibit, Feb. 29 - NJO presents Wycliff Gordon, and April 17 – NJO's Third Annual Jazz Writer's Night. Their current CDs are Live at B.B. King's featuring Annie Sellick, and Legacy – First Annual Jazz Writer's Night.

The Martha Rivers Ingram Center for the Performing Arts is on the Blair campus at 2400 Blakemore Ave. For tickets, call 615-322-7651.

Labels: arts, country music, cuba, events, puerto rico

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From the Nashville Area Hispanic Chamber of Commerce*:

NAHCC 2007 Hispanic Heritage Month Celebration and Awards Ceremony
Tuesday October 9th from 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm Country Music Hall of Fame
~ 222 Fifth Ave. S. Nashville, TN 37203 ~

We cordially invite you to participate of our Hispanic Heritage Month Celebration and Awards Ceremony to take place Tuesday October 9th from 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm at the Country Music Hall of Fame.

Hispanic Heritage Month (September 15th-October 15th) recognizes and celebrates the rich cultural, economic, artistic, political, scientific, social and educational influences and contributions of Hispanics throughout the United States. This celebration was sanctioned by a U.S Congress joint resolution on September 17th, 1968. Twenty years later, on August 17th, 1988, President Ronald Reagan extended it to a month long celebration from September 15th to October 15th.

This year our event will take place at the Country Music Hall of Fame on October 9th and will have outstanding guests and other Hispanic business and community leaders as well as the recipients of our 2007 Hispanic Recognition Awards for outstanding work and achievements in business, education, art, cultures and community.

Please celebrate together with us as a united community in Nashville. Your support is very important.

Live music, silent auction, h'orderves, cocktails and more!

For more information about this upcoming event and to reserve your tickets please contact Alejandra Peña Rodriguez at : info@nashvillehispanicchamber.com

www.nashvillehispanicchamber.com

The Nashville Area Hispanic Chamber of Commerce is a 501 6 non-profit business organization. The NAHCC keeps the highest level of accountability on sponsorship funds received or other corporate contributions. The mission of the NAHCC is to help Nashville become a better place to live, work and visit by creating positive environments conducive to business growth, education, integration, and cultural appreciation. Partnerships with corporate members wishing to fund NAHCC programs and events are subjected to Board of Director's approval and are primarily to support educational causes and/or empower entrepreneurship opportunities as well as mainstream business member initiatives not restricted to the Hispanic entrepreneur or market.

*Hispanic Chamber 101: There are two active Hispanic chambers of commerce in Middle Tennessee: the Nashville Area Hispanic Chamber of Commerce and the Tennessee Hispanic Chamber of Commerce.

Photo by Chris Wage

Labels: awards, business, chambers, country music

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The Tennessean reported here that Country Radio Broadcasters Inc. is presenting the results of a landmark study about attracting Hispanic listeners to the country music genre. The event is today at 4pm; details below.

More about the study can be found in this March 2007 story on the Hispanic Nashville Notebook.

WHAT: Presentation: "The Hispanic American Relationship to Country Radio and Music"

WHEN: Wednesday, August 1st, 2007 - 4:00 PM

WHERE: Massey Performing Arts Center Belmont University 1900 Belmont Blvd Nashville, TN 37212

COST: $20 at the door or online at www.crb.org

EVENT: The study of 600 Hispanics nationwide, age 12-49, and their relationship with Country music was commissioned by Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc. and conducted by Edison to examine the growth potential of the format among America's most rapidly expanding demographic group, Hispanics. It shows the tremendous potential for growth in attracting "the newest Americans" to the Country format. There will be a panel discussion following the presentation. Panelists include Mike Dungan, President Capitol/Nashville (Record Industry); Kevin King, Program Director, 95.5 The Wolf WSM-FM (Radio); Gary Overton, Executive VP/GM EMI Music Publishing Nashville (Music Publishing); Bobby Roberts, CEO The Bobby Roberts Company (Talent Agency); Rick Trevino, Warner Brothers Records (Recording Artist). The moderator is Ed Salamon, Country Radio Broadcasters' Executive Director.

Labels: arts, business, country music

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The Nashville Area Hispanic Chamber of Commerce is a 501(c)6 non-profit business organization. The NAHCC keeps the highest level of accountability on sponsorship funds received or other corporate contributions. The mission of the NAHCC is to help Nashville become a better place to live, work and visit by creating positive environments conducive to business growth, education, integration, and cultural appreciation. Partnerships with corporate members wishing to fund NAHCC programs and events are subjected to Board of Director's approval and are primarily to support educational causes and/or empower entrepreneurship opportunities as well as mainstream business member initiatives not restricted to the Hispanic enterpreneur or market.

Labels: country music

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Latin Market Communications
Press Release


Nashville, TN - May 31, 2007: Hispanic Country Music legend Johnny Rodriguez will give the opening performance at the CMA Music Festival's "Latin Country Music Show" on Saturday, June 9th at 12:30 PM on the Chevy Music Tour Stage, located at the Sommet Center at the corner of Broadway and Fifth Avenue. Also performing will be Bobby Marquez, John Arthur Martinez, Melanie Torres and Janie Feliz.

This free concert is a wonderful opportunity for Nashville's Hispanic community to support Hispanic artists who are bringing a new Latin flavor and sound to Country Music and to attend Nashville's signature musical event.

Rodriguez, who hails from Sabinal,Texas (just 90 miles from the Mexican border) became known worldwide in the 1970s for songs such as "Pass Me By (If You're Only Passing Through)," "Riding My Thumb to Mexico," and many more. Rodriguez continues to play concerts across the United States and to champion the Hispanic Country movement as the spokesperson for the U.S. Hispanic Country Music Association (USHCMA).
Texas native Martinez, like Rodriquez, grew up on a musical diet of Country, Rock and Latin music. He won national attention on USA Network's "Nashville Star" television show and continues to play a major role in bringing the Latin sound to Country Music.

Torres participated in the third season of "Nashville Star." Industry insiders have already dubbed her a star in the making.

The afternoon concert will be hosted by Maritza Baca, President of the United States Hispanic Country Music Association (USHCMA) and Eva Melo, news anchor of Nashville's Telefutura Channel 42 TV station.

CMA Music Festival, which launched in 1972 as Fan Fair®, takes place annually in Downtown Nashville. The four-day festival features more than 70 hours of live music, 30-plus hours of autograph signings, more than 400 Country Music artists and celebrities, popular exhibits, theme zones and special events. The 2006 CMA Music Festival was the biggest in event history with more than 161,000 fans throughout the event representing every state and 27 foreign countries. Half the net proceeds of CMA Music Festival are donated to the Nashville Alliance for Public Education to advance and improve music education in Nashville's public schools through the Keep the Music Playing program. 2007 CMA Music Festival takes place June 7-10. For ticket information, schedules and more, visit www.CMAfest.com.

CMA Music Festival is organized and produced by the Country Music Association. CMA Board member Tony Conway is the Executive Producer of CMA Music Festival. Premiere Radio Networks is the official radio broadcaster. Chevy: The Official Ride of Country Music. Borders® Books & Music: The Official Music & Book retailer of the CMA Music Festival. Additional promotional partners include Allstate Insurance Company, American Airlines, AT&T- Tennessee, Back Yard Burgers, BMI, Carl Black Cavender's, Chevrolet, CiCi's Pizza®, Coca-Cola®, Country Music Hall of Fame® and Museum, Country Weekly, Coyote Ugly® Saloon, CMT®, Crisco®, Digital Rodeo, Dr Pepper®, GAC, Gallo Family Vineyards, Great American Country, GEICO, Gillette Venus® Breeze, Grand Ole Opry, Greased Lightning Cleaning Products®, Gibson Guitar®, Hard Rock Café Nashville, Loveless Café, Mossy Oak Apparel, Music Festivals®, New Holland Agriculture Equipment S.p.A., On the Run® at Exxon, Prilosec OTC®, Rechargeable Battery Recycling Corporation, Sam's Town Hotel & Gambling Hall, Shane Co., Sharpie, Super 8®, Tennessee Education Lottery Corp®., TGI Fridays®, The Sportsman Channel®, Wrangler® and Yamaha Motor Corp., USA, Yankee Candle®, EMT services are provided by Vanderbilt Sports Medicine and Vanderbilt Life Flight. Fan Fair® is a registered trademark of CMA.

Chevrolet is the "Official Ride of Country Music," and continues its long-time support of the CMA Music Festival and the Country Music Awards.

Chevrolet is one of America's best-selling automotive brands. With the largest dealer network in the United States, Chevy is the leader in full-size trucks and the leader in sales of vehicles priced $35,000 and above. Chevrolet delivers more-than-expected value in every vehicle category. Chevy delivers expressive design, spirited performance and great value with standard features usually found only on more expensive vehicles.

For information on the 2007 CMA Music Festival, contact CMA Communications Department at (615) 244-2840.


Latin Market Communications
Andrew Vaughan
andrew@latinmarketcommunications.com
615-599-0045
United States Hispanic Country Music Association
Maritza Baca
maritzadbaca@aol.com
818-903-7962

Labels: country music

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Country music's family ties

Polka band alumni include Pee Wee King, Willie Nelson

"There was a blending"

The Los Angeles Times published this article about the increased demand in Nashville for accordions popular with norteño or conjunto musicians, and how that demand parallels increased migration to Nashville. Norteño/conjunto music has been described this way: "Though heavily influenced by German polka, you could say conjunto is the Mexican version of country music--sentimental, nostalgic, pastoral, and often embraced by the working class."

The L.A. Times article described the immigrants who have come to Nashville in recent years, and one Nashville councilman was quoted with this reaction: "'[I]t's kind of fun having the different flavors... At the same time, we don't have to lie down and give up our culture and heritage.'"

Is the influx of new music and new people a threat to old culture and heritage? Benjamin Franklin thought so, but he was worried about German immigrants changing U.S. culture and heritage, calling them, "a Colony of Aliens, who will shortly be so numerous as to Germanize us instead of our Anglifying them." (source: New York Times)

The sounds of norteño/conjunto music, as well as country music, are rooted in Germanic and Czech culture. Modern country music is a descendant of the immigrant influence that Benjamin Franklin feared: "The Germans did help Germanize the United States... There was a blending." - Rutgers University history and political science professor Daniel J. Tichenor, quoted in the New York Times

"In Texas, the pastoral folk music of northern Mexico (ranchero) blended with the Polka music of German immigrants to form the hybrid of conjunto. Country, too, is a hybrid, with its roots largely attributed to the folk music of Appalachia. But Tennessee isn't the only place that country developed--Texas lays claim to a lot of it, too. Much of the country sound was forged in Texas' dance halls, where German, Czech, and Mexican folk sounds merged." - Minnesota Public Radio Music Blog

"Polka, which originated from Bohemia, has also had a significant influence on norteño. Compared side-by-side, some styles of American polka may bear striking resemblance to norteño music. The polka beat is characteristic of norteño. At the turn of the 20th century, Bohemian immigrants flowed into Sinaloa, Mexico to farm the land and mine coal. German immigrants had also settled in large numbers in the cities of Monterrey, Nuevo Leon and Mazatlan, Sinaloa as early as the late 19th century. These German immigrants fueled the demand for a local brewing industry, and they also influenced the music scene by bringing the accordion and the polka rhythm, which were part of the popular music of their homeland." - Wikipedia

"A reed instrument developed in early nineteenth century Europe, the accordion is worn like a vest and consists of right and left hand keyboards that are connected by a bellows. Notes are produced by the bellows pushing air through valves which are controlled by the keyboard. The accordion is used primarily in conjunto, tejano and cowboy musics. The late accordionist Clifton Chenier set the standard for contemporary Cajun players like Zachary Richard. Basil Duhon, who works with Grand Ole Opry star Jimmy C. Newman, offers a cajun-style approach to the instrument. Flaco Jimenez is the most popular accordionist playing conjunto today." - Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum

"Country fiddling reflects a considerable amount of cultural synthesis. For example, the sliding into and out of notes - one of the distinguishing features of southern fiddling - is generally thought to be a stylistic trait derived from African-American music. Popular fiddlers such as Arthur Smith and Chubby Wise brought this bluesy trait to commercial country music. The Cajun music of French Louisiana has long had a tangential, but persistent, relationship to mainstream country music, with fiddling being perhaps the most distinctive Cajun music element that has influenced country. Aspects of repertoire and style of the German, Czech and Hispanic communities in the Southwest have been incorporated into the fiddling of that region and, by extension, into regional commercial country styles." - Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum

"Pee Wee King was an unlikely candidate for country music stardom. Yet as a songwriter, bandleader, recording artist, and television entertainer, he broke new ground in country music, and he helped to bring waltzes, polkas, and cowboy songs into mainstream country music during ten productive years at the Grand Ole Opry. Born Frank Julius Anthony Kuczynski into a working-class Polish-German family, he grew up in the polka-and-waltz culture of Wisconsin. His musical debut occurred at age fifteen, when he played the accordion in his father’s polka band." - Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum

"Growing up in central Texas, [Willie] Nelson came under the influence of a wide diversity of abiding musical influences—not just the Grand Ole Opry stars of the day, but also more indigenous sounds: the Texas honky-tonk of Ernest Tubb, the western swing of Bob Wills, and even the German-American polka bands he often played in as a youth." - Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum

See also PBS' Accordion Dreams

Photo by Lisa B

Labels: arts, country music, german, history, immigrants, mexico

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Sister Cities of Nashville’s Spanish chat group, Charlemos Spanish, announces speakers for April and May. Charlemos meets the second and fourth Thursday of the month from 7:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at Palette Gallery and Cafe at 2119 Belcourt Avenue in Hillsboro Village. All levels of Spanish-speakers, from beginner to native, are invited. The event is free and open to the public.

Scheduled speakers are:

* John Lamb, Editor, Hispanic Nashville Notebook, 12 April
* Dr. Philip Rasico, Vanderbilt Spanish Professor, 26 April
* Diana Holland, President of Tango Nashville and CEO of Hispanic Link Consulting, 10 May
* Martin Cadieux, Bi-lingual Educator, Frist Center for the Visual Arts, 24 May.

“Charlemos Spanish is truly fortunate to have such dynamic and qualified speakers”, said Elizabeth Worrell Braswell, president of Charlemos Spanish.

Charlemos Spanish is a social conversation group created in December 2006 by the Spanish Committee of Sister Cities of Nashville, a nonprofit organization, founded in 1990, dedicated to the promotion of global understanding through educational, professional and cultural exchanges.

Mayor Bill Purcell is the Honorary Chair for Sister Cities of Nashville.

Charlemos Spanish is for persons who wish to:

* Speak Spanish on a regular basis
* Make bilingual friends
* Learn more about Hispanic culture.

Founding members of Charlemos Spanish include—

* Claudia Villavicencio, Spanish teacher at MBA, Montgomery Bell Academy
* Kim Sorensen, Online Producer at CMT, Country Music Television
* Diana Holland, President of Tango Nashville, and a Hispanic cross-cultural consultant
* Elizabeth Worrell Braswell, online Spanish instructor for Austin Peay State University, president of Charlemos Spanish.

For directions and more information on the gallery go to: http://www.palettegallerycafe.com

Labels: arts, country music, education, spanish

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From the City Paper: Thirteen percent (13%) of new U.S. citizens in a September 2006 ceremony in Nashville were from Latin America. Almost half of Tennesseans with Latin American heritage are U.S. citizens (story here).

From the Edison Research country music survey: Garth Brooks is popular with thirteen percent (13%) of Hispanics age 12-49 (see page 19 of the Edison Media Research report).

Photo by Morgan Tepsic

Labels: arts, country music, statistics

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Study says country music has potential Hispanic audience

The potential Hispanic audience for country music is explored in this forty-page report conducted by Edison Media Research on behalf of the Country Radio Broadcasters. The report and the results of Edison’s study, “The Hispanic American Relationship to Country Radio and Music,” were unveiled at the 38th annual Country Radio Seminar in Nashville and involved 600 Hispanics nationwide, age 12-49 (press release here and excerpts in green below).

The good news for Country music is that nearly a quarter of Hispanics age 12-49 say that they enjoy listening to Country music (24%) and another 42% say they “do not listen to Country music but they would be open to listening more.” Only one-third of Hispanics say they dislike Country music and would never listen – a number in line with what is seen among whites.

One of the most significant findings points to tremendous untapped potential for growth of Country radios Hispanic listener base: Out of all surveyed participants, 41% agree that “Country radio stations are not interested in appealing to Hispanic listeners.” The results indicate that Country radio would benefit greatly from increased outreach to Hispanics: 56% of those who say they like or are open to Country music say that seeing an ad on Spanish television would lead them to listen more.

Larry Rosin, President of Edison Media Research concludes, “You reap what you sow. Country music only needs to make itself available to Hispanics, and then court them. Listening will almost assuredly go up.”

CRB’s incoming President elect Becky Brenner of KMPS in Seattle adds, “This potential increase in audience for Country radio and Country music is very exciting. We must figure out a way to tap into this rapidly growing demographic. The CRB will be analyzing the research in detail with a view to examining what the next steps will be.”

Margarita: the next Latin country star?

The Edison report above focuses on attracting Hispanic audiences to country music performers regardless of their race or ethnicity. Can there also be Hispanic country music stars? Margarita thinks so:

Margarita, who resides in the Rio Grande Valley of Texas is the niece of the late Tex-Mex superstar Freddy Fender. Margarita has been opening shows for Latin / Mexican Regional artists and groups (including Intocable), throughout Mexico and the U.S. She plans to fuse her Latin roots with country music, building on the musical legacy of her pioneering uncle.

Matt Stevens, a longtime champion of latin country music, stated, "Country music is wide open to a latin female act, as long as the songs are great and the artist is accepted by country fans as well as Latinos. Margarita has a wonderful musical heritage. She's the real deal."

Caliente Nights heat up B.B. King's

The Nashville Rage reported on Caliente Nights, a "weekly series of salsa and meringue shows" at the basement below B.B. King's in downtown Nashville.

The musicians include Carlos Negron and an 11-piece Latin orchestra led by DJ Jay Franco, and "[m]any of the players aren't full-time musicians — they're full-time soldiers at Fort Campbell."

"'Having a family ... for me it's important to be back when the kids wake up in the morning,' says Carlos Betancourt, who works in the headquarters of the 101st Airborne Division at Fort Campbell. He has two sons he's raising to play conga drums, just like their dad."

Nashville Latin Nights / Nashville Latino Talent Showcase

The Nashville City Paper reported on Nashville Latin Nights, in which San Rafael’s bandleader Rafael A. Vasquez is "starting a new venture called Nashville Latin Nights, a six-concert in 36 weeks production (roughly one show every six weeks)." The paper also said that "Vasquez will soon launch a Nashville Latino Talent Showcase, complete with prizes and judges."

Música de le Gente --- Music of the People Festival

Música de le Gente --- Music of the People Festival
American Roots Music Education and Metro Parks and Recreation
celebrate the music of Mexican-Americans

A festive and FREE celebration of Mexican-American music will be presented by American Roots Music Education and Metro Parks and Recreation on Saturday, March 24, 2007.
There will be lots of live music, including Rachel Rodriguez, Incanzable Cheyenne, and Danny Salazar y Los Kuatro during the afternoon. A new children's ballet, based on the folk tale "¡Salta, Rana, Salta!" (Jump, Frog, Jump!) will be presented by the Nashville Ballet at 1:00 pm and there will be a salsa performance by Salseros de todo el mundo. Throughout the afternoon there will be piñatas, dance lessons, and other activities.
Children can participate in crafts such as making paper flowers and cowboy hats, and building small wooden projects. There will also be opportunities for playing homemade rhythm instruments. Food and drink will be available for sale from local vendors.

FREE and open to the public

Date: Saturday, March 24, 2007
Time: 1:00 - 7:00 PM
Location: In the gym at Antioch Community Center
5023 Blue Hole Road (across from Antioch Middle School)
Antioch, TN

For more information & photos (color or B/W) please contact:
Buffy Holton (Director, American Roots Music Education) 385-5998
www.americanrootsmusic.org
For further information contact:
Mimi Shimmin (Special Events Coordinator, Metro Parks) 862-8424 x 357
Jose Ochoa (Superintendent of Cultural Arts, Metro Parks)
862-8424 x 347 en Español
www.nashville.gov/parks
For handicapped access call 862-8400

This project is funded in part under an agreement with the Tennessee Arts Commission and National Endowment for the Arts

Target World Music Festival: Music of the Americas

Nashville Symphony to Present
Target World Music Festival: Music of the Americas,
June 6 - 8
Internationally renowned artists to include Sergio Mendes, Jake Shimabukuro and Rick Trevino

The Nashville Symphony will present its first-ever world music festival from June 6-8, 2007 at the Schermerhorn Symphony Center. This three-day festival, sponsored by Target, will focus on music of the Americas featuring evening performances by such acclaimed artists as Latin country singer Rick Trevino, ukulele virtuoso Jake Shimabukuro and Brazilian jazz pianist Sergio Mendes and his band. (Note: The Nashville Symphony will not perform at this festival).

In addition, the Symphony will provide free world music performances during lunch hours in the Symphony Center’s Garden Courtyard with themed international food selections available for purchase at the Symphony Café. Artists and menus will be announced at a later date.

“The Nashville Symphony has always wanted to present a world music festival to celebrate music and cultures from around the world,” said Alan D. Valentine, president and CEO of the Nashville Symphony. “Now that we have this amazing space and an inaugural line-up of top musicians from all corners of the Americas, we hope this exciting event will be the first of many more to come.”

Wednesday, June 6 at 7:30 p.m.: Hispanic Influences in Country Music
As a nod to the CMA Music Festival, Latin country singer/songwriter Rick Trevino will provide a different twist to the country music activities as he performs Latin-infused country music, produced and co-written by friend Raul Malo. Trevino, a Grammy-award winning Texas native, is recognized for his eclectic mix of musical influences, which is reflected in his forthcoming album Whole Town Blue, a combination of South Texas swing, New Orleans honky-tonk and Spanish bolero.
For more information on Rick Trevino, please visit his web site at: http://www.ricktrevino.com.

Thursday, June 7 at 7:30 p.m.: Music and Dance of the Pacific Islands
Known for his lightning-fast fingers and improvisation, 28-year-old ukulele virtuoso Jake Shimabukuro shatters all musical boundaries by performing unheard-of feats on his four-string instrument. Shimabukuro has great respect for traditional Hawaiian music but considers it his calling to reveal the true versatility of the ukulele.
Also visiting from Hawaii are slack key guitarist Jeff Peterson, a Hawaii native whose unique instrument dates from the early 19th century, and the Hawaiian music group Kohala, presenting an acoustic blend of island jazz. Enhancing this performance from the Pacific will also be traditional Hula dancers and a native Hawaiian chanter.
For more information on Jake Shimabukuro, please visit his web site at: www.jakeshimabukuro.com.

Friday, June 8 at 7:30 p.m.: Brazilian Rhythms
One of the world’s greatest ambassadors of Brazil’s signature sound, pianist Sergio Mendes switched from classical to jazz at an early age and started his brilliant music career in the 1960s in clubs around Rio de Janeiro. A 1964 album by Mendes and his band Bossa Rio, arranged by the great Tom Jobim, helped explode the worldwide interest in bossa nova that continues over three decades later. This world music festival’s closing performer and his band will revisit a lifetime of monumental Brazilian music.

Tickets for evening performances of the Target World Music Festival: Music of the Americas are $10-$60 and can be purchased by calling the Nashville Symphony box office at 615.687.6400 or by visiting www.nashvillesymphony.org. Parking for all events is free at the SunTrust parking garage located at Fourth Avenue and Commerce.

Del Castillo on Dan Rather Reports

Del Castillo, the legendary Austin-based band that fuses Flamenco, Rock, Blues and World Music, will be featured in the next Dan Rather Reports on HDNet. The program, entitled “Latino Invasions,” debuts Tuesday, March 13, at 8 PM Eastern and will be repeated several times during the course of the week.

The veteran reporter contrasts the immigration issues the country faces with the Latino culture that is now part of the fabric of American life in this installment of his weekly series, the flagship series of the pioneering High Definition TV network. The influence that Latino culture has on television, movies and music is examined in depth with the latter segment keyed to Del Castillo’s philosophy and success.

HDNet filmed the band in performance at writer/director Robert Rodriguez’ SXSW Film Festival celebration that took place Sunday night at Antone’s in Austin. An extensive interview with Del Castillo band members was filmed earlier.

Dan Rather Reports: Latino Invasions can be seen as follows (all times Eastern):

Tuesday, March 13 – 8 PM
Tuesday, March 13 – 11 PM
Wednesday, March 14 – 2 AM
Wednesday, March 14 – 7 PM
Saturday, March 17 – 1:30 PM

Photo: Margarita

Labels: arts, business, country music

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Psychotherapist Sandra Velarde, will give a talk, in Spanish, on human typology at the next meeting of Charlemos Spanish on Thursday 22 February. Charlemos meets the second and fourth Thursday of the month from 7:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at Palette Gallery and Cafe at 2119 Belcourt Avenue in Hillsboro Village. The event is free and open to the public.

Sandra has twenty years of experience practicing individual and group therapy. She is director and owner of Colmenas Psychotherapy Center. She has worked in schools, a police department, and for the Mexican National State Workers Healthcare System. She has a bachelor’s degree in Psychology and a Masters in Neurolinguistic Programming.

“Sandra can evaluate a person in an instant”, said Charlemos president, Elizabeth Worrell Braswell. “She has anchored a television psychology section, as well as, written a psychology column for a newspaper”, added Braswell. “Her next goal is to write a book.”

Charlemos Spanish is a social conversation group, for all levels of Spanish-speakers, created in December 2006 by the Spanish Committee of Sister Cities of Nashville, a nonprofit organization, founded in 1990, dedicated to the promotion of global understanding through educational, professional and cultural exchanges.

Mayor Bill Purcell is the Honorary Chair for Sister Cities of Nashville.

Charlemos Spanish is for persons who wish to:

* Speak Spanish on a regular basis
* Make bilingual friends
* Learn more about Hispanic culture.

Founding members of Charlemos Spanish include—

* Claudia Villavicencio, Spanish teacher at MBA, Montgomery Bell Academy
* Kim Sorensen, Online Producer at CMT, Country Music Television
* Diana Holland, President of Tango Nashville, and a Hispanic cross-cultural consultant
* Elizabeth Worrell Braswell, online Spanish instructor for Austin Peay State University, president of Charlemos Spanish.

For directions and more information on the gallery go to: http://www.palettegallerycafe.com

For more events in Hispanic Nashville, visit the Hispanic Nashville Datebook.

Labels: country music, mexico, spanish

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Country Radio Seminar 38 offers education, networking in one-day package

In an effort to open its doors to those who normally could not commit to the three full days of Country Radio Seminar 38 (CRS-38), Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc. (CRB) is once again offering attendees the option of purchasing the Spring Town Meeting package.

The Spring Town Meeting, sponsored by BMI, will be held on Thursday, March 1, 2007. This special offer is specifically designed to give music industry professionals the opportunity to participate in a portion of the convention at a nominal cost. The initiative will include a panel discussion, performances and great networking opportunities.

Registration for the Spring Town Meeting package is only $85 until February 2, 2007. The on-site price after February 2 will be $110. The package will encompass the following segments:

Hispanic Study Presentation (2:00 PM - 3:00 PM) - The results from the first-ever study of Hispanic Americans and their relationship with Country Radio and Country Music are in! The study analyzes Census statistics and Arbitron data, combined with an original nationally sampled survey of Hispanic Americans and one-on-one in-depth interviews with Hispanics aged 12-49.

No Holds Barred (Rap Session) (3:15 PM - 4:10 PM) - Sit back and relax for an open, honest discussion with the gatekeepers in YOUR business. Bob Kingsley of Bob Kingsley's Top 40 asks the questions as Scott Lindy/Sirius Satellite, Mike Dungan/Capitol Nashville, Luke Lewis/UMG, Charlie Cook/Cumulus Media and Clay walker/Curb/Asylum sit at the bar and share their thoughts and concerns on Country's past, present and future.

BMI WCRS LIVE! (4:15 PM - 5:45 PM) - Co-sponsored by Country Aircheck, this showcase will feature acoustic performances by top singer/song-writers Sarah Buxton, Pat Green, Mac Davis and the show's host, Jeffrey Steele.

BMI Exhibit Area Networking Hour (6:00 PM - 7:00 PM) - Thursday Happy Hour is directly after WCRS Live! in the Exhibit Area.

"Country radio remains the primary source of exposure for Country songs, recordings and artists. Country Radio Broadcasters is providing this low cost way for all those in the Country Music industry who cannot attend the entire Country Radio Seminar to interact with radio stations who attend from all over America," said Ed Salamon, Country Radio Broadcasters' Executive Director. "I often hear misconceptions repeated about how radio selects and programs its music, and The Spring Town Meeting is an excellent opportunity for writers, producers, artists and others to talk directly to radio. This year's Spring Town Meeting attendees will also be the first in the industry to hear about the Country Radio Broadcasters' new study opportunities for Country music with Hispanics."

CRS-38 will be held February 28 through March 2, 2007 at the Nashville Convention Center. To register for the Spring Town Meeting package, and for complete seminar information, contact CRB, Inc. at 615.327.4487 or by visiting www.crb.org. Country Radio Seminar is a registered trademark of Country Radio Broadcasters, Inc.

Labels: arts, business, country music

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Monday: immigration forum at University School of Nashville

"Making sense of the debate"

Monday, January 22, from 7 – 9 p.m.

University School of Nashville Auditorium
2000 Edgehill Avenue
Nashville, TN 37212

Please join us for an educational forum designed to illuminate the complex and emotionally-charged rhetoric surrounding the immigration debate. This session will center on a thoughtful and constructive conversation on immigration and the positive steps that can be taken to address the problems associated with illegal immigration. The forum will address:

· the history of immigration in America

· the influence immigration has had on the democratic process

· current trends in immigration in Nashville, Tennessee, and the nation

· the impact of immigration on the US economy

· the national and local legislation being proposed

· alternative solutions to the problems and challenges at hand

Presenters include Dr. Katharine Donato (Vanderbilt Professor of Sociology), Stephen Fotopulos (Policy Director – Tennessee Immigrant and Refugee Rights Coalition), Tom Negri (Tennessee Hotel Association/General Manager Loews Vanderbilt Hotel), and members of the immigrant community. The panel discussion and audience participation will be moderated by Caroline Blackwell, Director of Multicultural Affairs, University School of Nashville.

The forum is being sponsored by University School of Nashville’s Office of Multicultural Affairs in partnership with the Coalition for Education and Informed Conversation on Immigration.

Catholic Charities, Community Relations Committee of the Jewish Federation, Conexion Americas, Fisk University Race Relations Institute, Franklin Area Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, Jewish Family Service, Metro Nashville Public Schools, Nashville Area Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, Nashville Human Relations Commission, Nashville Peace and Justice Center, National Conference of Community and Justice—Middle Tennessee, Scarritt-Bennett Center, Tennessee AFL-CIO, Tennessee Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, Tennessee Hispanic Voters Coalition, Tennessee Hotel and Lodging Association, Tennessee Human Rights Commission, TN Immigrant and Refugee Rights Coalition, Woodbine Community Organization

For more information about this event, contact Caroline Blackwell at (615) 277-7480 or at cblackwell@usn.org. The forum is free and open to public.

Thursday: Border-crossing composer drives story in "Al Otro Lado," showing at Vanderbilt

Director will be present for discussion

The Center for Latin American and Iberian Studies Spring Film & Speaker Series presents "Al Otro Lado" (To the Other Side, 2005) on Thursday, January 25, 2007 at 7:00 p.m. in Buttrick 101. This film tells the story behind illegal immigration and drug trafficking between the U.S. and Mexico through the eyes of Magdiel, a 23-year old fisherman and aspiring composer who dreams of a better life.

As movingly chronicled in "Al Otro Lado," Natalia Almada's debut feature, the border is a place where one people's dreams collide with another people's politics, and the 200-year-old tradition of corrido music vibrantly chronicles it all. In fact, if you really want to understand what is happening on the U.S./Mexico border, listen to the corridos, troubadour-like ballads that have become the voice of people whose views are rarely heard in mainstream media.

A discussion of the film with director Natalia Almada will follow the screening.

Thursday: Tango Nashville's second monthly Milonga

A new twist for dance group

Tango Nashville is already on the dance floor in 2007, having held beginner, intermediate and advanced classes and one Milonga already. The group has will hold its second January Milonga this Thursday, January 25 and has announced various special events for dance-minded Nashvillians this year:

NEW in 2007: TWO Monthly 'Milongas'!!
New: 2nd. Sunday of each month: 4 to 6 pm
As always: 4th. Thursday of each month: 7 to 9 pm

By popular demand, we have added a new date and time to share your Tango spirit and moves!
Here's the skinny for January 2007:

Thursday, January 25, 2007
7 to 9 pm
Ibiza Night Club
15128 Old Hickory Blvd., Nashville, TN 37211
(almost corner with Nolensville Pike, in the Hickory Trace Village strip mall where the Sherwin Williams store is).
http://ibizanc.com
Practice and show off your Tango! Socialize and relax, while dancing to a great selection of Tango music.
Tickets are:
$12 per person for non-Tango Nashville members
$8 per person for Tango Nashville members
CASH OR CHECK ONLY

**************************
SAVE THESE DATES!!

Saturday, February 3, 2007
4:30 to 7:30 pm
'Tango & Art', in partnership with the Tennessee Art League

Tuesday, April 24, 2007
6:30 to 8:30 pm
'Tango & Romance' @ the Nashville City Club

June 2007
'Tango & Wine'

Saturday, August 18, 2007
'Tango & Country' - Our Annual Fundraiser

For information about classes, visit the Tango Nashville web site at www.tangonashville.com

Photo credit: FangFangMM

Thursday: Austin Peay Spanish Professor Dr. Miguel Ruiz-Aviles speaks at Charlemos Spanish on "Medieval Spain: Model of Tolerance"

Dr. Miguel R. Ruiz-Avilés will speak, in Spanish, on Medieval Spain as a model of religious tolerance for the present day at Charlemos Spanish on Thursday 25 January. Charlemos Spanish meets the second and fourth Thursday of the month from 7:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at Palette Gallery and Cafe at 2119 Belcourt Avenue in Hillsboro Village. The event is free and open to the public.

Dr. Ruiz is an Associate Professor of Spanish; the Director of the Hispanic Cultural Center; and the Coordinator of the Study Abroad Program in Spain for the Department of Languages and Literature at Austin Peay State University. He is originally from Puerto Rico.

“Miguel has some very interesting ideas and is a dynamic speaker”, said Charlemos president, Elizabeth Worrell Braswell. “This is an opportunity to hear about one of the most fascinating periods of Spanish history, from an expert”, added Braswell.

“In 711, Spain began the first European renaissance. Jews, Muslims and Christians were allowed, for the most part, to freely practice their religions and many Jews and Christians held important post in the Moorish government of the time. Today, when we are looking for political, military or social solutions to the problems in the Middle East, Spain could very well serve as a model that needs to be studied in more depth”, explained Miguel.

Charlemos Spanish is a social conversation group, for all levels of Spanish-speakers, created in December 2006 by the Spanish Committee of Sister Cities of Nashville, a nonprofit organization, founded in 1990, dedicated to the promotion of global understanding through educational, professional and cultural exchanges.

Mayor Bill Purcell is the Honorary Chair for Sister Cities of Nashville.

Charlemos Spanish is for persons who wish to:
* Speak Spanish on a regular basis
* Make bilingual friends
* Learn more about Hispanic culture.

Founding members of Charlemos Spanish include—
* Claudia Villavicencio, Spanish teacher at MBA, Montgomery Bell Academy
* Kim Sorensen, Online Producer at CMT, Country Music Television
* Diana Holland, President of Tango Nashville, and a Hispanic cross-cultural consultant
* Elizabeth Worrell Braswell, online Spanish instructor for Austin Peay State University, president of Charlemos Spanish.

For directions and more information on the gallery go to: www.palettegallerycafe.com

Photo credit: Ruth Lozano

Hispanic Nashville Datebook

Labels: argentina, arts, country music, immigrants, puerto rico, spain

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Photo:Palacio Salvo, Montevideo, Uruguay by Juan Cubilla

Labels: country music, food, spanish, uruguay

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The Tennessean reports in this article that Raul Malo will perform this Saturday and Sunday nights at 3rd & Lindsley. Tickets are $25 for Saturday's show and $70 for Sunday's New Year's Eve show:

"Malo ends 2006 with two Nashville performances at 3rd & Lindsley. His year has been marked by critical acclaim (Billboard magazine's write-up claimed that 'the purity, clarity and strength of his voice is simply unmatched by any other singer out there today') and by a continuing evolution from 'Hey, isn't that the guy who fronted The Mavericks?' to the realm of 'respected solo artist.' In concert, he brings a small band and a big bag of songs, performing Mavericks songs, country classics, Latin-flavored numbers and plenty of the new album's torchy stuff."

The article also describes the making of Malo's latest solo album, "You're Only Lonely," which is available on Amazon.com here or on iTunes here. (The Hispanic Nashville Bookshelf features this and other music here.)

Malo is one of a small circle of Hispanic country music stars (story here).

RaulMalo.com lists the following praise for You're Only Lonely:

"This intensely romantic CD showcases his haunting vocals on an eclectic mix of covers, from the Etta James standard 'At Last' to Randy Newman’s 'Feels Like Home,' on which Malo and Martina McBride make the best pair since Aaron Neville and Linda Ronstadt." --- Ralph Novak

“Intensely romantic.” CRITIC’S CHOICE -- People

“[An album] dedicated to resurrecting the kind of romantic pop music that Frank Sinatra long personified. This is all about setting the mood for candlelight, champagne and a cozy evening with the one you love – or wish to." -- Los Angeles Times

“Anyone in search of sophisticated make-out music should snag Malo's album, posthaste: You're Only Lonely is a perfect disc to break out (along with a bottle of red wine) once the kids are tucked into bed and fast asleep.” -- The Washington Post

“The best makeout album of the year. Music for lovers only." -- St. Petersburg Times

“This is turn down the lights music, serious baby-making stuff." -- Cincinnati City Beat

“A beautiful record, through and through. If you don’t like it, you’re a bad person.” -- MSNBC

“Easily the most romantic album of the year." -- Music Row Magazine

“A mood-setting, smooch-inducing date album." -- Buzzine.com

“Reminiscent of Frank Sinatra's classic late-night albums (think 'In the Wee Small Hours'). Glorious.” -- Salon.com

“A handsome set of ballad covers….for your listening and dining pleasure. Burnished and refined…verging on operatic. A-.” -- Philadelphia Daily News

Hispanic Nashville Datebook

If you know of an event that should be listed in the Datebook, please contact the editor.

Labels: arts, country music

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Country Music Association takes a closer look; west coast creates U.S. Hispanic Country Music Association

The AP reported in this story that Hispanic fans are showing up at country music concerts but remain an unknown quantity in the industry, so Music Row is asking for formal studies.

"Country-western music acts are reporting noticing more Latino fans at their concerts. As a result, Nashville's Music Row is now starting to dream of its Next Big Audience."

"[N]o one really knows if the nation's largest minority group is ready for fiddles and steel guitars. The phrase 'country music' doesn't even have a translation in Spanish."

"The Country Music Association says there are no good studies to show how many Latinos listen to country already, so the CMA formed its own task force to investigate."

"Eva Melo, of Tennessee-based Latin Market Communications, said the CMA has requested a proposal for a Latino market study, but she is skeptical her fellow Latinos will take to the genre."

"Rick Rodriguez, who manages the Latin division of Nashville-based Songs for the Planet and works as a song plugger for the same, has been trying to encourage Music Row to mix with Latino artists and music."

"'I'm a Mexican from South Texas,' he said. 'I grew up listening to people like Freddy Fender and Johnny Rodriguez. If we can get old-school country music, like back in the day what was coming from Hispanic cats, I think it would be big.'"

"Texas-based singer-songwriter John Arthur Martinez, who was the runner-up on the inaugural season of "Nashville Star" (USA Network's country music talent competition like 'American Idol'), said Latino listeners are already there."

"'Nashville has not made a conscious effort to court the Hispanic audience on a major scale, but without realizing it they've already attracted people like my sister,' he said. 'Her CD collection is 90 percent country and 10 percent tejano.'"

"Maritza Baca, a marketer who recently formed the U.S. Hispanic Country Music Association in California, is convinced Latinos are already gravitating toward country-western. She's met with the CMA twice about it."

"[Eddie Wright-Rios, a Vanderbilt University professor who specializes in the cultural history of modern Mexico,] said he can understand why Latinos are an attractive audience to the music industry."

"'I know a lot of people who don't have a lot of money, but if a good Mexican band comes along, they'll drop $150 on a pair of tickets,' he said."

"Rick Murray, the Nashville CMA's vice president of strategic marketing, says he wants to see more research before he is convinced. That research should answer questions like whether Spanish-language singers are necessary to lure listeners."

"'Is it a Hispanic artist, or is it bringing existing music into the Hispanic market?' he asked. 'Those are two very different things that might complement each other."

The Tennessean, the Nashville Scene music blog Nashville Cream, and newspapers worldwide have picked up this story.

The Hispanic Nashville Notebook reported on the lack of Hispanic country music superstars in this October story published after the death of Freddy Fender.

Labels: arts, country music, spanish, statistics

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Hispanic country music superstars few and far between

Fans worldwide mourned the October 14 passing of musician Freddy Fender, after his arduous struggle with lung cancer. He leaves a legacy of genre-busting chart-toppers including "Before the Next Teardrop Falls," a bilingual hit on both country and pop radio.

In a press release, Recording Academy Presidident Niel Portnow said, "As one of the few Hispanic stars in country music, Freddy Fender broke down barriers through his song writing, his guitar playing and his passion for creating and performing music. Fender approached his work in country and rockabilly with a Latin sensibility that made him a unique talent. Our sympathy goes out to his family, his friends and to the millions of fans who always will remember the indelible mark he has made on our culture."

Fender's success in country music has been nearly impossible for Hispanic artists to duplicate. Especially in the last few years, country music industry experts have bemoaned the lack of modern Hispanic superstar power (see 2005 story here and 2006 story here).

Hispanic country music singers have made their mark in the Nashville-based country music TV competition "Nashville Star," (story here), but this season's industry awards shows reveal that the missing Hispanic superstars are still missing. Last night, the 2006 ASCAP Country Music Awards at Ryman Auditorium named no Hispanic winners. The nominees for the 40th annual CMA Awards include no Hispanic artists. And there are no country artists among the nominees for the 7th Annual Latin Grammys. There is not even a country music category at the Latin Grammys, unless you include the "Ranchero" style of Mexican music, which often features cowboy hats.

At a time when politics are putting Hispanics on the defensive, Hispanic entertainers are offering hope and diversion to the nation's biggest minority. Although there can be only one Freddy Fender, aspiring country music stars might take a note from Fender's bright smile, humor, and passion for music in their quest for center stage.


Listen to a snippet of "Before the Next Teardrop Falls" on

Labels: arts, country music

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Sister Cities of Nashville’s Spanish chat group, Charlemos Spanish, announces its speaker for the remainder of 2006. Charlemos meets the second and fourth Thursday of the month from 7:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at Palette Gallery and Cafe at 2119 Belcourt Avenue in Hillsboro Village. The event is free and open to the public.

Scheduled speakers for the remainder of 2006 are:
· Pilar Arrieta, Palette Gallery and Café owner who moved to the U.S. from Colombia, South America--12 October;
· José Amden, financial consultant and Sister Cities member, who is from Argentina, will share his knowledge of marketing in the U.S. and Argentina--26 October;
· Emi Canahuati, Manager for Education and Training at Planned Parenthood of Middle and East TN--9 November;
· no meeting on 23 November;
· Christina Amezquita, Sister Cities member and teacher at Glendale Elementary, Nashville’s only Spanish Immersion school--14 December
· Christmas party--21 December.

"Palette Gallery and Cafe is the perfect location for Charlemos" said Elizabeth Worrell Braswell, chairman of Charlemos Spanish, “because it is a fine art gallery that serves specialty coffees and teas in its café, and the owners speak Spanish.”

Palette owner Pilar Arrieta is merging the Spanish conversation group that she founded in her home with Charlemos. Her husband and co-owner of Palette, Jorge Arrieta Yances, is the featured artist in the gallery.

For directions and more information on the gallery go to: http://www.palettegallerycafe.com

Charlemos Spanish is a social conversation group for adults created in December 2006 by the Spanish Committee of Sister Cities of Nashville, a nonprofit organization, founded in 1990, dedicated to the promotion of global understanding through educational, professional and cultural exchanges.

Mayor Bill Purcell is the Honorary Chair for Sister Cities of Nashville.

Charlemos Spanish is for persons who wish to:
* Speak Spanish on a regular basis
* Make bilingual friends
* Learn more about Hispanic culture.

Founding members of Charlemos Spanish include—
* Claudia Villavicencio, Spanish teacher at MBA, Montgomery Bell Academy
* Kim Sorensen, Online Producer at CMT, Country Music Television
* Diana Holland, President of Tango Nashville, and a Hispanic cross-cultural consultant
* Elizabeth Worrell Braswell, online Spanish instructor for Austin Peay State University.

Labels: arts, country music, spanish

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According to this event listing, Melanie Torres from the 2006 season of Nashville Star will be performing in a benefit concert for the Lupus Foundation of America, Mid South Chapter. The concert is 7pm tomorrow (Tuesday) night, June 27, at Mercy Lounge:

Calling all country music fans, come out and enjoy a great night of music while supporting a great cause! Top contestants from USA Networks mega hit show Nashville Star will perform live in support of the fight against Lupus.

This year’s benefit concert for the Lupus Foundation of America, Mid-South Chapter (LFAM) will bring together the top talent from season 4 and will include performances by Casey Rivers, Matt Mason, Kristen McNamera, Melanie Torres, Jewels Hanson and Shy Blakeman. But that’s not all this great night has in store, don’t be surprised if you run into some past contestants out in support of LFAM!

Sherry Hammond, Executive Director of the Mid-South LFA Chapter, is thrilled to partner with these talented artist, “Lupus affects 1.5 million Americans and more than 100,000 new cases develop worldwide every year. This is a fantastic opportunity to increase public awareness for a disease that strikes mostly young women of childbearing years.”

Stars for Hope: A Benefit for the Lupus Foundation of America, Mid South Chapter will be held Tuesday, June 27, 2006 at Mercy Lounge in Nashville. The concert will begin at 7:30 pm. Tickets will be available for $10, at the door, and all proceeds from ticket sales will go directly to LFAM.

Focus: Entertainment

Labels: arts, country music

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The Washington Post reports that Capitol Nashville CEO Mike Dungan thinks the country music market is ready for a break-out Hispanic star:

"'All we need is a hero, somebody the Hispanic community would relate to and who wants to play country music and get a song on country radio,' said Mike Dungan, president and chief executive of EMI Group Plc's Capitol Nashville, home to stars like Kenny Rogers and Keith Urban."

"'The gatekeeper here has been country radio because radio programmers won't commit airtime to any artist until they are convinced that the artist is the real deal -- a 'country artist' first and foremost,' said Dungan, who believes it is imperative the record be sung in English."

"If the artist then has success, he or she can record a similar record in Spanish or blend the two languages. Dungan is convinced that American country music fans to whom Spanish is a primary language 'would love this.'"

The article cites Freddy Fender as one of the groundbreakers with a Hispanic/country profile. This year's musical reality series Nashville Star featured Hispanic contestant Melanie Torres until this week, when she was cut in the fourth episode (story here).

Labels: arts, country music, english, spanish

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Nashville Star has announced ten contestants for the show's fourth season, one of whom is Melanie Torres, a young Hispanic woman from Albuquerque, New Mexico. Nashville Star is a country music talent competition along the lines of Fox's American Idol. The show can be seen on the USA Network starting March 14.

"Melanie Torres comes to Nashville from Albuquerque, New Mexico where she grew up and attended the University of New Mexico, graduating with a Bachelors Degree in Music. Melanie began singing at the age of 9 and the first album she ever bought was one from Michael Jackson. She also plays the piano, and is learning how to play guitar to broaden her repertoire."

"When it comes to goals, Melanie wants to be a successful mother and a role model for young Hispanic women. Professionally, she dreams of one day being CMA Female Vocalist of the Year ... not surprising when you consider that the one word Melanie would choose to describe herself is ambitious. If she got to do a duet with one artist, it would be Martina McBride and her favorite karaoke song is "Love Shack" by the B-52's."

According to a USA Network press release, Melanie "is bilingual, speaking English and Spanish, and wore the Miss Albuquerque crown in 2000. After passing on the tiara, Melanie moved to Nashville with nothing in her bank account destined to make it big."

Melanie follows in the footsteps of another Hispanic contestant, John Arthur Martinez, who came in second place in the show's first season.

Labels: arts, country music, english, spanish

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Members of the Spanish committee of Sister Cities of Nashville have formed a new conversation group called Charlemos Spanish for those who want to learn, practice, and speak Spanish. The meetings are twice a month and are open to the public, according to the group's press release:

A new social conversation group for adults has been formed in Nashville by volunteer members of the Spanish Committee of Sister Cities of Nashville.

The group is called “Charlemos Spanish”, which is a combination of the Spanish for “Let’s chat”, and the English word, “Spanish.”

“Charlemos Spanish” meets the second and fourth Thursday of every month from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m. at Montgomery Bell Academy’s library. The public is invited. There is no cost to attend, or join. MBA is located at 4001 Harding Road, Nashville, TN 37205. Contact Elizabeth Worrell Braswell at 297-4239, or elizworrell@comcast.net, for more information. The next meeting will be Thursday, February 9, 2006.

“Charlemos Spanish” is for anyone who wants to:
• Speak Spanish on a regular basis
• Make bilingual friends
• Exchange ideas
• Learn more about Hispanic culture.

Founding members of “Charlemos Spanish” include—
• Claudia Villavicencio, Spanish teacher at MBA, Montgomery Bell Academy
• Kim Sorensen, Online Producer at CMT, Country Music Television
• Diana Holland, President of Tango Nashville, and a Hispanic cross-cultural consultant
• Elizabeth Worrell Braswell, online Spanish instructor for Austin Peay State University.

Diana Holland explains that “the name of the group reflects the times we live in, where cultures are 'weaved together' in our daily lives". Holland, a native of Argentina, is very involved in sharing all that the Argentinean culture has to offer with Nashville. She previously lived in Atlanta where she worked as a Community Liaison for the Consulate of Argentina in Atlanta.

“I think that it is wonderful that Spanish-speakers of all levels are welcomed. There will be Spanish, English, and Spanglish spoken” adds Kim Sorensen.

Claudia Villavicencio explains that “The group will be creating a casual, friendly, and professional atmosphere. Some of the activities that are planned include a game night for playing charades or board games in Spanish; show and tell from travels; a tapas night; and a presentation of Nashville’s Spanish Sister City, Girona, Spain by Vanderbilt Spanish professor Dr. Phil Rasico.”

“Charlemos Spanish” founding member, Elizabeth Worrell Braswell, says, “I have been looking for a place to speak Spanish and make Spanish-speaking friends in Nashville for years.” “You would think that as a college online Spanish instructor for Austin Peay State University that I would have plenty of opportunities, but this is not the case.” “I am very excited about the group, as I have already made some wonderful new friends just working on the committee.”

Of course there are already Spanish-speaking groups in Nashville. For example, we have:
• Nashville Area Hispanic Chamber of Commerce;
• Tennessee Hispanic Chamber of Commerce; and
• Franklin Hispanic Chamber of Commerce.
Also, most Spanish teachers are member of professional foreign language teacher groups. “Charlemos Spanish” is unique in that it is strictly social.

Claudia Villavicencio is a native of Guatemala and is fluent in English; her parents still live in Guatemala.

Kim Sorensen is a Nashvillian who loves to travel to Spanish-speaking countries and has a sister-in-law who is from Panama.

Diana Holland is a native of Argentina and is very involved in sharing the best of Argentinean culture with Nashville.

Elizabeth Worrell Braswell is a Nashvillian who teaches Spanish online for Austin Peay State University.

Contact: Elizabeth Worrell Braswell elizworrell@comcast.net, 297-4239, 4505 Harding Road, Nashville, TN 37205, or visit Sister Cities of Nashville website, http://www.scnahsville.org, or contact its director at director@scnashville.org.

Labels: arts, country music, english, spanish

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The Tennessean reports in this story that the Nashville Ballet recently returned from a 17-day tour through Argentina and Uruguay. The dance group included country music ballet among its repertoire. The effort was announced in April and arises from director Paul Vasterling's three-month Fulbright-sponsored stay in Argentina last year.

Report from Argentina/Uruguay tour
Announcement of Argentina/Uruguay tour
Announcement of Nashville/Argentina cultural exchange

Labels: arts, country music, uruguay

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Billboard Radio Monitor interviews country music industry insiders on why there are no Hispanic country music superstars.

"'I suspect that the reason we haven’t had a breakout Hispanic country star yet is the same reason that Texas music remains a largely regional force,' says Smokey Rivers, APD at KPLX (the Wolf) Dallas. 'Nashville insists that music is only successful if it’s appealing to everyone from Seattle to Secaucas [N.J.]. So the time, money and tools aren’t being invested in developing someone who would have a large Hispanic or Southwest appeal. That’s too bad.'"

"'My sense of it is that there is a big void that could be filled by an artist that can touch these new potential country fans,' Rivers adds. 'Considering that 15% of the Wolf’s audience now is Hispanic, I would love to have an artist that spoke to them.'"

"Boomer Kingston, OM for KGKL-AM-FM/KKCN San Angelo, Texas, says that although Hispanic artists have faced challenges in the past, 'I do believe that an Hispanic can become a major star in this format. It will just take the right set of circumstances for that to happen, just like those circumstances that any other artist hopes will come their way.'"

Labels: arts, country music

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The Tennessean reports that the Nashville Ballet will go on tour in October in Argentina and Uruguay.

"It will include a suite of ballets the company has previously done to country/folk or, as Vasterling puts it, 'local' music. Past artists whose music has been choreographed by the ballet include Nanci Griffith, Hal Ketchum and Jonell Mosser."

"'And that's something they really want in South America,' [Artistic Director Paul Vasterling] said. 'The American Embassy is giving us support for this tour, and they're extremely keen on the fact that we do ballet to country music, and that we're the 'Nashville' ballet.'"

"The ballet will also welcome a young Argentinian dancer for the summer ..., as well as an Argentinian ballet master who will teach in the school's summer program."

Labels: arts, country music, education, uruguay

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Knight Ridder reports that the country duo Big & Rich is breaking out of the country music mold with influences from other areas of the musical spectrum, including bilingual rap.

"'The roots of it is absolutely country music and its branches go all over the place,' Rich says, citing previous trailblazers like the late Johnny Cash, who held sway over rock and country audiences in his prime without diluting his sound."

"Into the staid and polished world of Nashville-produced products comes an album that actually lives up to its name. 'Horse of a Different Color' brims with the hallmarks of traditional country like banjos, fiddles, acoustic guitars and punny song titles such as 'Save a Horse (Ride a Cowboy).'"

"But it upends convention by adding rock guitars, hip-hop rhythms and bilingual English-Spanish raps from Cowboy Troy."

Labels: arts, country music, english, spanish

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SunTrust Bank musician banking group expands to Miami, brings in Hispanic entertainers

"SunTrust Banks Inc. extended the private banking services it has been offering to the music industry in Nashville since 1988 to Atlanta and Miami last year. The bank's Nashville division has grown to 27 bankers providing the services to more than 1,000 clients, who include some of the biggest stars in country music. It has two bankers in Miami working primarily with Latino music stars and just added a third banker in Atlanta."

"'I knew it would be successful in Atlanta and Miami, but we have greatly surpassed our expectations,' said Brian Williams, senior vice president and director of the bank's music private banking group. 'No other bank is doing this at this level.'"

Atlanta Business Chronicle

Labels: arts, business, country music

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Second-place Nashville Star John Arthur Martinez finds Dualtone label, sings bilingual country

"John Arthur Martinez of Marble Falls just inked a deal with Dualtone Records."

"Martinez, who placed second, already has decided on the first single, one he wrote and sang on the show — 'Home Made of Stone.' It's about his family having to live in a manufactured home while he pursued his dream."

"He also has recorded a bilingual version of 'Amarillo by Morning' and a new song, 'Tonight at Fiesta.' The rest of the album will be recorded this month."

"'The recording sessions at Emerald Studios surpassed all of my already high expectations,' Martinez wrote his fans. 'My producer, Matt Rollings, most definitely has the ear and the touch when it comes to capturing the essence of an artist.'"

"Rollings, who worked on Keith Urban's self-titled, million-selling debut album as well as with dozens of other artists, assembled an unusual mix of studio musicians for a chemistry not often found on a Nashville recording, Martinez wrote. CMT also is taping a feature story on Martinez."

Labels: country music

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