Artists & Projects Directory
Los Muñequitos de Matanzas
From 1992- 2002, Los Muñequitos thrilled U.S. audiences
and built a devoted fan base with their performances and workshops throughout
the country. Finally, after nine long
years, Los Munequitos return to the U.S.
in April-May 2011 with a brand new program: Tambor de Fuego, featuring
work from their latest recording, tributes to legendary members and new pieces
created especially for this eagerly awaited tour.
Hailed as the "reigning regents of rumba" by the San
Francisco Chronicle, "the essence of Cuba's musical soul" by the San
Diego Union Tribune and "truly keepers of a sacred flame" by Latin Beat,
Los Muñequitos de Matanzas are amongst the highest regarded percussionists in
the world and masters of Afro-Cuban ritual and rumba music and dance. Founded
in 1952, the group currently spans three generations of an extended family of
musicians, singers and dancers.
The music of Los Muñequitos de Matanzas keeps alive 500
years of drumming, chanting and dance, preserving the vibrant culture of the
African Diaspora intrinsic to Cuba's
living legacy. While sustaining these
cultural traditions, the group's choreography and new musical compositions continue
to innovate from the African roots of Cuban culture. In one evening's concert, Los Muñequitos may
play the rhythms and drumming of the Santeria religion which originated with
the Yoruba tribe; the songs of the Abakuá, a secret fraternal organization
originally from Nigeria;
and contemporary Cuban rumba in its varied and ever evolving forms.
Los Muñequitos has performed in more than 50 cities across the U.S.,
from intimate (and packed!) shows in community centers and dance & music
clubs to full-scale theatrical productions in grand concert halls. Whatever the setting, their complex drumming,
captivating vocals and spectacular dancing transport audiences to the vital
streets of Matanzas and the soul of Cuba.