What’s in a pop song? There are stories that run deeper than catchy lyrics might suggest. The instruments, the language, the style – even a song’s structure can show us how ideas and experiences are traded between diverse communities. In this hands-on experience, participants will play instruments from U.S. Latino and Latin American traditions and literally “connect the dots” on a map to see how Latinos have contributed to popular music in the U.S. We’ll explore typically “Latin” styles such as salsa, Tejano and reggaetón as well as Latina and Latino’s integral contributions to rock ’n’ roll, hip-hop and country.

City Arts is delighted to partner with powerhouse Humanities Washington on our lunchtime talks during the fest. All are FREE and OPEN TO THE PUBLIC. Humanities Washington sparks conversation and critical thinking using story as a catalyst, nurturing thoughtful and engaged.

Sponsored by Shunpike