June is accordion month, so get ready for posts full of squeezebox goodness throughout the month.
For starters, check this video preview of the Smithsonian doc "Accordion Kings: the Story of Colombian Vallenato Music" (sorry, embedding was not an option). The segment highlights Yemie Arrieta Ramos, a young girl (she looks no more than 9) who was the first woman ever to win the Valledupar Vallenato Kings Festival.
When she starts attending the Turco Gil Academy, which according to the clip, has taught some 2,000 kids traditional vallenato over the last two decades, her father tells her she's picked a "man's instrument" and has to forget she's a girl.
She says, "A woman does not have a man's ability." I winced a little at that, but waddayagonnado? At least they let her play, and she kicks ass.
She and her pint-size accompanists (including the smokin' Alejandro on percussion) totally win over the crowd, and it's really mesmerizing to see her zone out, leaning her cheek against the accordion, eyes closed.
If you're in DC June 6, you can catch a free screening of the doc. Otherwise, you can read a bit more about it here.
Also check this video of five-time Vallenato King Hugo Carlos Granado at last year's festival, singing "La puya rebelde."
Instruments are not sexist.. sure strength is an advantage for men. But style and drive can be a hell of a thing. Unfortunately she said what everyone is telling her but I'm so glad she is rocking out regardless... Regardless of what others think, besides what she has been told. She is a rock star!
Posted by: Claudia | March 04, 2010 at 10:57 PM