Last week, students from all grade levels of Spanish classes went on a field trip to the Museum of Science and Industry. Students saw two Latin themed presentations that enveloped them in in the culture. The first of which was a group of musicians by the name of Grupo Chacha. They performed many different styles of music from many countries, educating students about they styles along the way. Grupo Chacha sang song in Spanish in the style of Cumbia (Cuba), Mariachi (Mexico), Bomba (Puerto Rico), Merengue (Dominican Republic), and folk songs from all over – even a song in Portuguese. Several times during the hour-long performance, students were invited on stage to help play instruments or dance – which a couple of our young ladies took advantage of. Profe Finaldi even got in on the fun, dancing the Cha-Cha with other teachers to Tito Puente’s “Oye Como Va”.

After a short intermission, another electrifying performance began. Titled “Learning on Stage: Viva Flamenco”, this presentation featured five performers including a male and female dancer, a singer, a Flamenco guitarist and a percussionist. Viva Flamenco emphasizes the intensity of Flamenco through the use of staccato footwork, palmas, guitar playing, singing and dancing. The program is dedicated to bringing knowledge and entertaining together in this portrayal of Spanish music and dance and bridging cultural diversities.