As the vibrant sounds of instruments fill the air, the University Band prepares to take the stage for a captivating concert that celebrates the rich cultural tapestry of Hispanic and Latin American music. This upcoming performance, titled "A Celebration of Hispanic and Latin American Music," promises to be a mesmerizing journey through the diverse rhythms and melodies of the region, all while supporting the Putnam County Emergency Food Pantry.

Uniting Artistry and Community Outreach

Showcasing the Diversity of Latin American and Hispanic Music

The concert will feature a diverse array of music that reflects the vibrant rhythms and melodies of various Latin American and Hispanic cultures. From the shimmering brass notes to the warm resonance of strings and the intricate weaving of woodwind melodies, the University Band and String Orchestra will transport the audience on a musical odyssey. "Each piece will provide a unique experience," explains Craig Paré, D.M.A., Professor of Music and Director of University Bands. "Music from Peru sounds different from music from Mexico or Spain. We want our audience to leave feeling like they've truly experienced a taste of what music is like outside of the United States."

Collaborating with Experts to Enhance the Experience

The concert will also feature guest contributions from Prof. Soledad Forcadell, Associate Professor of Hispanic Studies, and Prof. Angela Casteñeda, the Lester Martin Jones Professor of Sociology and Coordinator of Latin American & Caribbean Studies. "They'll be contributing poems and sharing knowledge about the danzón, a dance style integral to the concert," Paré explains. "We want to ensure the program notes are accessible, so they will be available in both Spanish and English."

Fostering Appreciation for Cultural Diversity

Ultimately, the concert aims to foster appreciation for cultural diversity through music while reinforcing DePauw's commitment to community outreach. "We want attendees to recognize that the university band and music students here are first-rate musicians who work hard to make good music," Paré emphasizes. The concert serves as a platform to showcase the university's dedication to celebrating diverse cultural expressions and using the power of music to bring people together.

Giving Back to the Community

In addition to highlighting the rich cultural tapestry of Hispanic and Latin American music, the concert serves a greater purpose: a food drive for the Putnam County Emergency Food Pantry. Audience members are encouraged to bring canned and non-perishable food items to support local families in need. "We've always tried to use our concerts as a platform to give back to the community," Paré states. "This year, we aim to fill our donation table in the Great Hall of the Green Center for the Performing Arts with contributions that will go directly to the food pantry. In fact, all DePauw students, staff and faculty are encouraged to donate throughout the week."

A Personal Connection to the Community

Paré's personal connection to the community informed this initiative. "I've lived in Greencastle for over 30 years and have seen families struggle to make ends meet," he shares. "I know families that struggle from week to week to ensure their children are fed. Supporting the food pantry is crucial—not just for me, but for DePauw as an institution." By leveraging the concert as a platform for community outreach, the university band aims to make a tangible difference in the lives of those in need.