by Maritza Ramirez (Author)
This book recommends tourists what to do in Puerto Rico when you want to have a good time. We share what are the places to listen to live music while enjoying your favorite drink, dance latin rhythms, learn how to dance, and attend local festivals to watch free performances by world renowned artists. The book has concise descriptions to help you decide among the wide range of musical experiences available in the island, whether you like troubadours, see lively folkloric dances, or dance Afro Caribbean rhythms in middle of the street. The Puerto Rico is Music guide contains references to musical and dance traditions in a straight to the point, informative, practical, sometimes funny tone as seen by a local. Over 200 fiestas patronales and festivals are reviewed with sample schedules of events where you can watch free performances of world-renowned artists. On the guide's 132 pages you will find activities organized according to different types of rhythms that are based on a mix of African and European musical traditions: -An introduction to the five music genres and dances we cover in this guide - j baro music, bomba, plena, salsa and reggaeton. -Links to videos describing the dances associated to each rhythm.-Sample music schedules from the most relevant festivals and festivities.-Lists of new, high-quality, family-oriented, free musical events not even known to residents.-List of venues where you can dance to the types of rhythms you want to enjoy.-Hard to find places on the Internet where you can find out about current events.-Sample music programs from the most relevant festivals and festivities.-Descriptions of places and landmarks related to music and dance.This is a complement to your travel guide that will enhance the discussion about all things musical. The guide is written in first person and some portions are the author's view, such as the quality of an event or a place's security level. Read this guide if you are interested in knowing what the locals do.
Author Biography
Maritza Ramirez is a computer engineer and entrepreneur with a music formation. She started to play saxophone when she was fourteen and went on to be a member of the Youth State Band of Puerto Rico. This band was part of an elite performing arts program for kids who spent all summers and weekends in the former Ramey Military Base rehearsing to participate in Puerto Rico's official events. While various former members of the band went on to become professional salsa and jazz performers performers (such as Victor Manuelle, Furito Ríos, Héctor Matos), she exchanged C sharps and B flats for computer bits, but always kept her appreciation for Latin music and culture. She has a master's degree from Michigan State University.