Three Latin American Dances - Concert Band

"I grew up listening to music that most people would label as Latin Caribbean.  When you're born Cuban/Dominican, live in Puerto Rico and then San Diego...Well, you get the idea. Thanks to the wonderful group in the commission consortium, I've been able to make a dream a reality.  I've had each of these beautiful cultures.

The first movement represents the busy streets of the Dominican Republic, specifically the city of San Cristobal where I spent many days with my grandparents.  The many sounds represent the zooming, honking, and busy lifestyles of the Dominican people.  The music also represents the beautiful night skies (last few measures with a glockenspiel) and kids playing, waiting for their parents to come home.

The second movement is quite emotional to me.  My Cuban family had to leave Cuba as political refugees, escaping the horrors of communism and poverty.  The movement is slow in nature, heavy in emotion and contemplative.  My grandfather used to sing one of his favorite hymns to me quite frequently. It was important to me to add hints of it to It is Well in this movement.   During the editting of this piece, my family lost my grandmother.  This movement is dedicated to her.  Rest in peace, Abuelita.

The third movement is composed in the style of a Mexican Huapongo.  A fun, dance-like cultural party full of festival expression.  The movment is dedicated to my wife's family.

Concert Band, Grade level. 4.5 - score and parts included