Music

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The Music of El Barrio

Tito Puente Salsa's with The Simpsons

(http://www.duffzone.co.uk/php/gs_script.php?pic=s07/2f20_tp2)

El Barrios own Tito Puente featured with his band in an episode of the hit show "The Simpson." Tito Puente was one of the major leading figures in the development and popularization of Salsa music. He was great influence as a band leader as well as a soloist. Puente's Afro-Cuban Rhythms, driving horn lines and unique solo style inspired many great musicians and continues to be an influence in today's music.

East Harlem and Music

East Harlem has a rich musical tradition. The Latino community of El Barrio has produced some of America's most energetic music and continues to be a leading player. From Afro-Cuban jam sessions to Salsa composers to numerous clubs and venues, East Harlem is a hot bed of the latest Latino music.

East Harlem houses some of the leading musicians in New York and the world. Artistic leaders such as Willie Colon, Hector Laval, Milton Cardova and Jose Mangual lead the scene in Salsa Jazz and various forms Latin American music. Clubs like East Harlem SM (104 E120th) and record stores such as Le Marketa Records(100E 116th) provide valuable outlets for musicians to play their latest works. The Opus 18 Harlem School of Music provides youth with, in school and out of school, classical training. Jam sessions such as Julia's Jam which most recently happened on March 31st gives up-and-coming musicians a chance to workshop their ideas with experienced veterans and create new exciting spontaneous music.

Adding its vibrant culture to the Big Apple, El Barrio is on the cutting edge of modern music in New York City. America's love affair with Latin American music is going down in East Harlem. And it is institutions like Juilas Jam and the Opus 18 School of Music that are leading the way. Thanks to Jose Mangual, Jr., and other musicians, we can hear exciting, innovattive sounds and rhythms as we stroll down Tito Puente Drive.

 

    
Tito Puente, Jr.
 
Tito Puente
 
Machtito
  

Tito Puente now has a street named after him in East Harlem. His music was greatly influenced by Machtito. Machtito was one of the first great latin musicians. He played with all the great jazz artists in the 40's and 50's including Dizzy Gillespie, Dexter Gordon and teamed up with Charlie Parker to make some of Birdland's best music.Tito Puente, Jr., picks up where his father left off. Puente Jr. blends the traditional Afro-Cuban style with contemporary pop sounds. Visit his website at www.titopuentejr.net.

Click here to listen to an excerpt of El Cayuco

Click here to listen to an excerpt of Hong Kong Mambo

(http://www.musicofpuertorico.com)

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