For many Latin Americans, tradition plays a huge role in the development of not just the culture but also the music that comes from that culture. This is clearly evident in the work of Cuban Son Band Septeto Nacional. Since 1927 the Cuban band has worked tirelessly to keep the traditional Cuban son alive and little has changed for the 4th generation of the band that currently tours today. San Diego will be able to experience true, authentic Cuban Son at their upcoming Anthology concert here in Little Italy on September 3rd. Recently I was lucky enough to talk with Francisco Oropesa from the group about the history and tradition of Septeto Nacional. I hope you enjoy the interview as much as I did.
Ritmo Bello: Francisco Oropesa, it’s great to finally sit down with you to talk about the legendary Septeto Nacional. Okay, let’s begin. Can you give my Ritmo Bello readers some background on the band’s origin and the original leader, Ignacio Pineiro?
Septeto Nacional: The Septeto Nacional was officially founded on December 13, 1927, by Don Ignacio Piñeiro at 56 Pocito Street in the neighborhood of Pueblo Nuevo, in Havana, Cuba. Additional founding members were Juan de La Cruz Iznaga, Francisco Solares, Jose Manuel Incharte, Alberto Villalón, Bienvenido León y Abelardo Barroso. Another early member was Lázaro Herrera. He became the first trumpeter to record Cuban son in the newer septet format. Prior to this, the group was a sextet, as were the vast majority of son groups in Cuba at the time. The addition of the trumpet was a major innovation in the development of Cuban son.
Ritmo Bello: What exactly does ‘septeto” refer to, the group members themselves or the instruments? What’s the history behind the name?
Septeto Nacional: Septeto (Septet) refers to the number of muscians in the group (seven musicians, each with an instrument). Ignacio Pineiro played a significant role in changing the number of musicians in the son format to seven from the original six.
Ritmo Bello: Most folks may not be familiar with the difference between modern salsa music and Cuban Son. How would you describe the differences and what do you see as the advantages of one music form over the other?
Septeto Nacional: First, the son is played with acoustic instruments. Some of the early instruments are no longer used as frequently, such as the Marímbula (used as a bass – constructed of several metal strips attached to a box) and the Botija (a jug – like those found in the Kentucky black jug bands).
The son played by Septeto Nacional is special. Ignacio Piñeiro’s unique arrangements and compositions are infused with many of the African derived music traditions found in Cuba, such as Rumba (the Rumba complex includes: Guanguancó, Yambú and Colombia) and Abakuá. He created and enriched his music with all these elements.
Ritmo Bello: Although Septeto Nacional is known for its rich musical history I’m sure you have an opportunity to make new music. How and where do you find inspiration for creating new music?
Septeto Nacional: The most important objective for our group is to keep the original repertoire and preserve the Rumba style Ignacio Piñeiro brought to the son.
When we make new music, we’re inspired by our excellent musicians and composers. However, we always make sure to conserve the traditional character and brand handed down by Ignacio Piñeiro.
Ritmo Bello: As a history buff I always like to see the greater picture and understand how music has evolved through certain events. How has the Cuban revolution in 1959 affected music coming from Cuba such as Cuban Son?
Septeto Nacional: In our case, the group has not been affected. We have always received our country’s full support. We tour and perform a great deal and through this, we receive much admiration and respect in Cuba and throughout the world. We are proud to be the ambassadors of Cuban Folklore, a title we’ve held since 1929, and represent our traditional music at the highest levels.
Ritmo Bello: Can you tell me a little about the albums that Septeto Nacional has released to date?
Septeto Nacional: A vast number of recordings have been made since 1927. Between 1959 and 2010, more than 20 albums have been released. Some of the latest and most significant recordings are: Poetas del Son (Chant du Monde label – Grammy nominated, 2002), El Sabor de la Tradición (Ferment 2005), Noche de Conga (Egrem 2007), Desafiando al Destino (Bis Music 2009).
Ritmo Bello: Are there current plans for new CD releases coming up soon?
Septeto Nacional: Our latest album is titled Sin Rumba, No Hay Son from Harmonia Mundi/World Village Records. We’re launching it on this U.S. tour. The official release date is September 14th. The CD has 14 great tracks. We hope our fans enjoy it and that it’s a success on the global market
Ritmo Bello: What song from your group best epitomizes true Cuban Son in your opinion?
Septeto Nacional: Indisputably, there are many songs from Piñeiro that exemplify the Septeto Nacional. However, in my opinion, the most universal is Échale salsita (throw a little salsa on it!). The term “salsa”, the blanket word we use today to describe tropical/Latin music, can be traced to this son composition.
Ritmo Bello: What type of awards has the group received over the years on account of Cuban Son music? Which ones are you most proud of receiving?
Septeto Nacional: I think the most significant awards the Septeto Nacional has received are the gold medals from the Seville World’s Fair in 1929 and the Chicago World’s Fair in 1933. Equally as important, the group is also a recipient of the Cuban Cultural Heritage Award of Distinction. We’re proud and honored to be so recognized.
Ritmo Bello: What are you future plans concerning your music?
Septeto Nacional: To continue the worldwide promotion of Ignacio Piñeiro’s music, identified globally as Cuban Folklore.
Ritmo Bello: As a salsa dancer I have to ask, what do you think about the growth and popularity of dancing to salsa, Cuban Son or other types of Latin music?
Septeto Nacional: In many countries we see salsa dancers dancing on rhythmic elements of the Cuban Son. We also see many people come to Cuba to learn popular dance, some of them have dance academies that exist in different countries. I think it’s great to see so many young people eager to learn how to dance to this music we all love. Cubans breathe their music and dance (both in popular and folkloric forms). It’s a constant presence in our lives, from morning to night. Cubans live it every minute of the day – in their homes, on the streets, festivals, clubs – music, dance and art are a constant presence in Cuba. It’s a part of our lives from the time we’re born. We know and understand all Latin rhythms and trends from all parts of Latin America.
Septeto Nacional: The audience can expect to listen and dance to the best Cuban traditional music, the most authentic and best preserved Cuban son in the style of Ignacio Piñeiro.
Ritmo Bello: Is there anything else you’d like to share with the San Diego salsa and Latin dance community that we haven’t covered yet?
Septeto Nacional: We hope the San Diego public enjoys our music and our interpretive quality. We’re the 4th generation of Septeto Nacional and have played over 500 concerts in over 36 countries over the past 10 years.
Ritmo Bello: Do you have contact information in case anyone from the Ritmo Bello audience wants to contact you?
Septeto Nacional: They can contact us by email at echalesalsita@cubarte.cult.cu or by phone in Cuba 535-2829003 or 537-8635736. Ask for Frank or Ricardo.
Ritmo Bello: Francisco, on behalf of the San Diego salsa dance community and Ritmo Bello thank you for your time! It has been an honor to talk to you today.
Septeto Nacional: Many thanks to you and the Ritmo Bello audience. We hope to see all of you at the Anthology Jazz Club shows.
The New York Palladium. The name alone conjures up memories of Latin music greats such as Tito Puente, Machito, and Tito Rodriguez. From the 1950′s on, Latin music was created and nurtured by these and many other great musicians that performed at the Palladium.
Today, the spirit of New York Palladium Latin music is alive and well in Southern California. Angel Lebron y Su Sabor Latino do a great job of bringing back contemporary audiences to an era of big band mambo, salsa, and other great Latin music. I had the privilege of sitting down with Angel Lebron, the group’s leader, to talk a little bit about his experiences and what it means to bring Palladium era salsa to the world today.
Ritmo Bello: Angel, it’s great to finally sit down with you to talk about you and your music. I want to start by asking you about the main focus of your salsa music. How would you describe your music?
Angel Lebron: First, thank you John for this interview its a good thing that the salseros get to know their band leaders or even their favorite musicians through interviews as this. In answering your question my main focus is that of the Palladium era Big Band sound the Tito Rodriguez, Tito Puente, Machito and moving along to the beginning movement of the late 60s early 70s of that street/urban NY sound, the music I’m playing is described as Street Salsa or Salsa Callejera (Dura).
Ritmo Bello: What are the origins of your salsa music career?
Angel Lebron: I was born in music, I come from a family of professional musicians. My grandfather Antonio “El Mosquito” Camacho not only was on vocals with Machito but he was 2nd voice to Davilita back in the early 40s. My father Luis Lebron was known with the romantic trios he played Primera Guitara (also known as “Prima”) and segunda voz with El Trio de Johnny Rodriguez brother to Tito Rodriguez (see the connection). This trio in NYC was the first to be heard on Commercial Radio WCBS. On WNBC my birth was announced publicly. My mom told me after the announcement that while my father was attending to my mother he had to run out to work that night, LOL, the life of a musician.
My father then went on to work with El Trio San Juan, Daniel Santos, Jose Feliciano and many more. I had the honor while living in Puerto Rico to perform with my father and his group. Unfortunately he died two months later. So I have both worlds of Latin Music, the romantic trio and the Big Band because I was raised by my grandparents. I was more into the Big Band sound, Cuban style music with the jazz influence as well. However, being raised in the South Bronx all one can hear each day is Latin Music, everyday at my grandparents home was either a rehearsal, practice music of some kind or my grandmother beating education in me, LOL, on the weekends after the gig the musicians and family friends came to party at my grandmothers, who in the world can sleep with all that happening !!! My brothers and I would just laugh and imitate them all, we were 9 years of age.
It wasn’t until 11 years ago that I met after knowing for many years that the Lebron Brothers are my distant cousins (4th or 5th), understand John that this is the first time I mention this publicly, we met once with Angel the director and bass player and my manager Norma Santos has in the past spoken with Angel on a few occasions but never did or have I used this relationship to move in the music world past, present or future, I am me and have something of my own to give to you. Growing up in those mean streets of the South Bronx exposed me more to the music and instruments of the street – PERCUSSION. I picked up the congas being street taught no classroom just pure “calle’, either you feel it or you don’t. We played everywhere on the side walks, roof tops, local parks, school yards, basketball courts (outdoors) everywhere and kept the neighborhood happy with music. BTW at the age of 12 I witnessed Charlie Palmieri recording at a record store/label on Westchester Ave and Prospect Ave., called La Ciguena, in those days there were booths with a turntable where you were able to listen to those 78s give it back and leave, I was a regular…LOL….
Ritmo Bello: Why did you choose Su Sabor Latino for your band name?
Angel Lebron: I chose that name because with my concept its Su Sabor Latino – Your Latin Flavor – we are a dancers band. We don’t play for us (the band) we play for you with “Sabor”. Whether you’re dancing or just listening I want our energy and that flavor to reach out to you so that you can feel what I feel and we both join in a music communion and communication. Speaking of concept, any band that begins to form should have a concept, this is the road map and people are able to identify ones band, for example I don’t play Merengue, Bachata, etc., it doesn’t mean that I don’t like that form of music in fact I do but I don’t play it because its not within my concept, I play STREET SALSA !!!!!!!! While on this subject of bands John, you probably already know that I’m a bit outspoken, LOL, but always respectful toward others, but I can’t understand why bands feel that they are competing or in some kind of competition to get back or with the want to throw another down at the same token with constant negative criticism. I want to say that music is an art form where one expresses the art of music however or whatever it may be, to bring the competitive attitude to music I strongly suggest go into sports, what goes around comes around.
Ritmo Bello: What types of influences from your Puerto Rican and New York background have impacted how you’ve created your salsa music?
Angel Lebron: My influences come first from my father’s and the experience I underwent with that authentic back home feeling. To play it one has to feel it, grow up in it, smell it and love it. Hanging out in local neighborhood parks, participating in jam sessions, learning from each other, my childhood friends – I MISS YOU ALL. And the great Nigerian Master Drummer Babatunde Olatunji and Chief Bey whom I worked with for 2 years learned to understand the drum and be a part of Drums of Passion when later after I left John Coltrane came on. That West African influence can be heard at times as I perform intertwined with Latin sound.
Ritmo Bello: How and where do you find inspiration for creating new salsa music?
Angel Lebron: I find inspiration for creating through the music of culture that is the Yoruba Culture and my meditation through the sound of the bata drums my spiritual being is then uplifted to another level of thought and feel then I receive and I place that on paper. Nature also inspires me, that’s why I live in Moreno Valley, LOL.
Ritmo Bello: What has been your experience been like working and performing in Southern California?
Angel Lebron: You’ll love this one, at first I wasn’t sure how the reaction was going to be like until that first gig at Mama Juanas in 2007, it was GREAT!!! California is now my home. I belong to California as well as represent California in the salsa genre, I love it here and my experiences have been the best, I never look at things negatively, only taking everything as a learning experience in life. At all times I maintain myself and the band focused. Working in California is the bomb, I’ve met and made so many friends working and performing its unbelievable.
Ritmo Bello: Can you tell me a little about your CD’s that you’ve released to date?
Angel Lebron: I’ve been on various CD’s with other artists but ‘PRIMO’ is my first solo release with my own band. This CD is intended to continue my concept by keeping the classic Latin music alive and well with the purpose of allowing those not able to see me live to hear and enjoy that true street sound. They can know what it really is so that when my original music is released people will know that sound is Angel Lebron “…..It ain’t no rinky dink and it ain’t no dinky dink….” Once again I got caught by surprise, “PRIMO” is now worldwide distributed by Reyes Records in Miami and endorsed by Tycoon Percussion located in Chino, CA. The PRIMO is on music charts ranked and highly recommended on notable sites as DESCARGA.COM. PRIMO is the editor’s pick and for the last 4 months this CD has continued to be rated in Europe as well.
Ritmo Bello: Are there current plans for new CD releases coming up soon?
Angel Lebron: Yes, there are plans presently on the works, I have 3 originals which should be completed soon and continuing with additional classic salsa, all dance music.
Ritmo Bello: What are some of your best memories from your performances? Are there any in particular that stand out in your mind?
Angel Lebron: All of them, LOL…But you want one….Ok, it’s the Oxnard Salsa Festival of 2008 where I jumped out from behind my congas and started to dance, people were shouting all I can see is a river of heads as far as I can see all yelling in cheers as I continued to dance to the end of the finale, then as I was walking off the stage I hear “OTRA, OTRA, OTRA !!!” I was overwhelmed with tears of joy and the satisfaction that came into play. My manager looked at me and said ‘Angel they love you go back’ and I did go back and played another for everyone….This will make my 3rd year at the Oxnard Salsa Festival.
Ritmo Bello: How often do you make it down to San Diego and when can we expect to see you again in America’s Finest City?
Angel Lebron: I don’t go as much to San Diego as before. I love your city, the people, it’s my cup of tea sort of saying. There’s venues which I want to perform at but I’ll leave that information at the end of this interview, however, I’ll be back to San Diego on the Sevilla Yacht Party on Saturday June 26, 2010 and John I can’t wait! I’ll be performing new songs to San Diego which will be remembered for a long, long time.
Ritmo Bello: What advice can you give to up and coming salsa musicians?
Angel Lebron: My advice is first finish your education and study for a degree. This business & industry is hard, rugged and doggy dog bluntly speaking. This will enable you to fall back on something but at the same time if you really I mean really have that feeling inside of you that burns then pursue your dream and don’t stop and don’t allow anyone to discourage you. And my second advice is : IT’S NICE TO BE NICE….Which means we don’t make our own success, people do that is, your following, the dancers, the DJs, the listeners, the Promoters and Club Owners they are the cause of our success. Be nice, be professional, Be Humble and Be Real.
Ritmo Bello: Is there anything else you’d like to share with the Ritmo Bello readers that I haven’t covered so far?
Angel Lebron: Yes, I want your readers to know that my successes are due to my grateful God and my ancestors, to my manager Norma Santos, her assistant Carmen Ortiz of Dream Enterprises/Dream Records whom have both been pushing and breaking through the barriers, their promotion and Public Relations as well as believing in this project has made my life that much easier, many now have met them both and are well loved. And people should also know that I’m very personable with the public so when you see me at the venues don’t be shy come over and say hi, I truly would love to meet you.
Ritmo Bello: Do you have contact information in case anyone from the Ritmo Bello audience wants to contact you?
Angel Lebron: Oh absolutely, here’s our office information : Contact person is Norma Santos or Carmen Ortiz, Office Phone : 951-208-0177 , FAX: 951-208-0115 , EMAIL : allmusic33@yahoo.com, WEBSITE: www.nycdreamenterprises.com
Monday through Saturday, 9am to 7pm
Also, to purchase the PRIMO CD you can purchase online at DESCARGA.COM or REYES RECORDS, any local distributors or local record stores can purchase through our company Dream Enterprises / Dream Records.
Ritmo Bello: Angel, thank you so much for your time and I’ll see you at the upcoming Sevilla Yacht Party!
Angel Lebron: Thank you John, Love you bro a big shout out to Michael Onsurez, another friend also to all of San Diego. Thank you all…..And CALIFORNIA MIL ABRAZOS Y BESOS LO QUIERO A TODOS !!!!!!! SEE YOU EN LA RUMBA, EN LA SALSA….
Salsa dancers sometimes hit roadblocks in their dance development that may seem insurmountable. Due to physical or even mental constraints, many dancers have been challenged as they learn the dance. Many times how they respond to their challenges serves as inspiration for us all.
One individual in particular epitomizes this in his own development as a salsa dancer. Dancing salsa with one leg and a crutch, Reinaldo Ojeda shows us all that even the most challenging constraints can be overcome. Below is a short interview of Reinaldo Ojedo, a truly exceptional salsa dancer.
Ritmo Bello: Reinaldo, thanks for agreeing to sit down for this interview. Let’s begin. Being a salsa dancer with one leg really sets you apart from anyone else in the world as a dancer. What sorts of challenges did you face when you were first learning to dance salsa?
Reinaldo Ojeda: My biggest challenge was the disability itself I suffered at birth due to my umbilical cord . It caused trouble in my left leg and the cord cut off the flow of blood causing the leg to die in the my mother’s womb. My family treated me as a normal child nonetheless and I played with my brothers and cousins at my grandparents house growing up. We always met during weekends to share a luncheon or a birthday and I grew accustomed to playing soccer and other games with them up to the age of 5 using a crutch. As I got older I realized other kids not part of our family would look at me differently and question my abilities to play with them. By the time I was 7 though I had grown in confidence and even played soccer at my school as part of the team. It was during this time that my mother taught me to dance and I was always around my family who were all musically inclined. My uncles and Grandfather Carlos Cabrera had a band were they sang boleros and I was able to get exposure to all types of music like salsa, meringue, etc.
Ritmo Bello: What motivated you to begin salsa dancing?
Reinaldo Ojeda: My love of dancing came about a few years ago with my brother when we were frequenting a bar in Bogota called THE BRIDGE PA¨ALLA. One day a few salsa dancers appeared, dancing very nicely and introducing me to the dance. At that time I did not think I had talent for it until the owner of the bar Arvey Walteros proposed that I try to learn the dance and perform in front of his customers. I took on the challenge and was a hit not just at his bar in Bogota but in other places I performed. The experience opened my thoughts to other things I could with my life including something different like dancing.
Ritmo Bello: As a Colombian American I know that Colombian salsa dancing has a huge impact worldwide through cities such as Cali. Being from Colombia, can you describe how Colombian salsa dancing has influenced your development as a dancer?
Reinaldo Ojeda: Salsa dancing in Colombia is best known not only as a quick dance but also for the technical side of it as well. Its been difficult for me to keep my speed and technical dance moves up to what is known in Colombia, but I’ve worked hard to not fall behind. I perform at the best salsa academy in Cali, Swing Latino, on a monthly basis doing salsa cabaret shows. I take pride showing my skills and demonstrating to people in Cali that salsa dancers from other parts of the country like Bogota have their own salsa talent.
Ritmo Bello:What advice can you give to someone who may be disabled but wants to learn how to dance salsa as you did?
Reinaldo Ojeda: In life we all have some sort of disability whether its physical or mental. This is true even with the most ‘perfect’ of people. In many ways the real disability though is a mental one that prevents us to do things even if we can physically. There are examples of people like me who have worked hard to do things in life despite disability such as the Mexican singer Toni Melendez who even though has no hands still plays guitar with his feet. I think you need to look at these good examples that God has sent to the world to show that disabilities don’t necessarily have to limit us.
Ritmo Bello: What has been your best memory from your salsa dance experiences?
Reinaldo Ojeda: My best experiences have been through traveling to other countries like Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Nicaragua, the United State, Italy and other places I never though I would visit and show the world that there exist a reality beyond my disability. Through my travels I’ve also been able to show that Colombia is not all bad as some may think and that we also have a joyful culture in Colombia.
Ritmo Bello: I understand you are actually a Gold medalist in the Para Olympics. Can you tell me a little about that experience and how it’s impacted your salsa dancing?
Reinaldo Ojeda: Well for swimming I was part of the Colombian swim team and I feel fortunate to be able to participate in that. As we say in Colombia you should always be “echando pal ante” or striving to move forward and this experience has helped push my salsa dancing development. With the support of my parents, my wife Claudia Patricia and my daughter Nicol Saray I feel that they have been my heartfelt motivation to pursue this and dancing.
Ritmo Bello: Do you have any plans of visiting San Diego, California in the near future? Perhaps to go to the upcoming San Diego Salsa Bachata Festival in September?
Reinaldo Ojeda: I don’t have any current plans at the moment. I would like to attend the San Diego Salsa Bachata festival and I’m currently looking into finding funding to allow me to perform at that event.
Ritmo Bello: What advice can you give to people that are new to salsa dancing?
Reinaldo Ojeda: Learning how to dance is not always easy but with work its rewarding to know that you can get to a high level of proficiency. People can get to the level of dance where they can even perform like me with that hard work and dedication taking them to levels they may not have even thought possible.
Ritmo Bello:Do you have contact information in case anyone from the Ritmo Bello audience wants to contact you?
Reinaldo Ojeda: Sure. If anyone wants to reach me they can communicate with me in Bogota, Colombia through:
They can also visit YouTube and type in my name, Reinaldo Ojeda, to find lots of videos of my dancing like the ones appearing in this interview.
Ritmo Bello: Reinaldo, Thank you for your time and everything you to do inspire salsa dancers worldwide.
Reinaldo Ojeda: Thanks to Ritmo Bello for giving me the opportunity to do this interview. I want to send a very special greeting to all my fans in Colombia and worldwide, that God bless them always. Remember that salsa is life!
Although San Diego has many different dance companies, each one shines in their own special way. A good example of this is Alma Latina Dance company. Directed by Gabriela Equiz and Sergio Jasso, their dance company is known in San Diego and throughout the world as one of the best around (they are currently ranked #5 in the world in the On 1 division of the ESPN World Salsa Championships).
Apart from world class salsa dancing, Alma Latina is also known for its great work with dancers of all levels, including kids. I recently sat down with Gaby and Sergio to discuss their dancing, what motivates them, and what they have in store for San Diego salsa dancers. I hope you enjoy the interview!
Ritmo Bello: Sergio and Gaby, thanks for taking the time to address the Ritmo Bello dance community. Let’s begin.What would you say is the main focus of Alma Latina Dance Company?
Alma Latina Dance Company:We focus on helping salseros dance better than they ever thought they could and even helping them get to competitive levels while enjoying the process. Many people have told us that they really enjoy our sabor and the attitude that our dancers project on stage!
Ritmo Bello: What are the origins of your dance company? Why did you choose Alma Latina Dance Company for your name?
Alma Latina Dance Company:As a child, I went to a performing art school in Mexico City and loved it- all I wanted to do everyday was sing and dance. I realized that Tijuana didn’t offer anything like that, so I decided to start a performing art school in the summer of 2005. Later, I asked Sergio to come and help me instruct the boys in salsa dancing and we became partners. Then we expanded into teaching salsa to adults in 2006 in Tijuana and in San Diego in January 2008. We just started teaching in Los Angeles as well.
Ritmo Bello: What type of salsa dancing does Alma Latina perform? What types of influences have impacted how you both dance salsa?
Alma Latina Dance Company:Unlike other salsa companies, our dance teams aren’t exclusively On 1 or On 2- we focus on the musicality and that means we train our dancers to easily switch into whatever timing the music calls for. You’ll see that our salsa choreographies usually incorporate many other dance influences: hip hop, ballroom, modern, flamenco, ballet and tap- it gives our routines their distinct style. On top of that, both Sergio and I contribute different aspects of what makes us so strong: Sergio has a strong sense of musicality ( & humor) and that comes through in our choreography and I have a good eye for lines and details and tend to polish and perfect things.
Ritmo Bello: Does Alma Latina Dance Company have a particular focus on teaching certain age groups to perform?
Alma Latina Dance Company:We don’t like to limit ourselves to any age group: We have people 3 years to 70 years old. But we do earn a lot of attention for the accomplishments of our young dancers: Our kids couples took 1st and 2nd place in three age divisions in the first Annual Kids Salsa Convention in LA, and Albert Torres has invited our kids to be featured in a showcase at the 2009 World Salsa Championships in December! We’ve recently decided to form a non-profit around our kids dance troupe. Our Mission statement is to connect kids to culture using Latin music and dance to promote discipline, pride, health, and the history of Latin culture all while having fun. If you or someone you know would like to make a donation, please contact us at Info@AlmaLatinaDanceCompany.com
Ritmo Bello: Are you taking on new dancers now? How does someone audition to be a part of your salsa performance team?
Alma Latina Dance Company:YES!!! We are always taking new dancers for our Amateur & Intermediate teams. We also have Semi pro and Professional levels that do require a private audition- but we can do that anytime- just send us an email: Info@AlmaLatinaDanceCompany.com. In addition, we have members of each team learn the routine of the team above them so they are always challenged and so they can get ready to step up a level.
Ritmo Bello: I understand that your dance company operates out of Tijuana , Mexico as well as San Diego, California . How has this impacted the types of dancers you train?
Alma Latina Dance Company:I think it has made all our students really happy and inspired- there is such diversity in the dancers! The San Diego students always comment how they love the warmth of our Tijuana studio culture (we all kiss hello and goodbye to everyone at our TJ Studio). And our Tijuana students love the enthusiasm of our San Diego dancers! Also, a big plus is that all our dancers can come to the Tijuana studio and practice for free whenever, and there is always a Social going on at Alma Latina … I am not joking, there is a party every night…. And then TACOS at a stand by our studio We’re working to bring that same atmosphere to San Diego- starting on November 14th, we’ll have a monthly Social in San Diego too. Our new studio, The Woodroom, is in Northpark, which has a big neighborhood party called Ray At Night. As part of that event, we’ll be offering a free beginner lesson from 7:30-8:15 and free social dancing open to the public from 8:15-10:00 (just in time to head out to the other salsa clubs and socials)!
Ritmo Bello: Where has Alma Latina Dance Company performed?
Alma Latina Dance Company:We love to perform locally as well as at all the big West Coast Congress events like San Diego, Los Angeles, Las Vegas, Palm Springs, Arizona and San Francisco. We have also regularly traveled to the Acapulco Congress, the Mexico National Championships in Mexico City, and the World Salsa Championships. We recently performed at the Mayan Team Competition and WON- we are so excited to have earned that distinction! We are also really pleased to have been invited to headline the Seattle Salsa Congress over Thanksgiving weekend. We are hoping to add Europe to our list of performance destinations in the next year!
Ritmo Bello: In many of those performances and competitions you’ve won a number of awards. Can you share with us some of your best memories involving winning those awards?
Alma Latina Dance Company:Yes- we are so proud of our many dancers who have done so well in competition! Just this year we have claimed 6 first places and 6 second places in competitions Nationally and Internationally.
Competing is really hard work but we love it- it is the best learning experience. Competing takes all the challenges of performing and adds judges into the mix! You learn to cope with your nerves and the pressure– and dance regardless. The challenge is doing it like it is a show even when you see the judges just in front of you. You want to think that they are going to be entertained!
Admittedly the competitions add pressure, but they also push us to grow as dancers and be the best performers we can be. That’s where the great memories come from: working together towards a goal and achieving it- and traveling as a group to perform for very appreciative audiences!
Ritmo Bello: Is is true that you’ve been ranked within the top 10 salsa dancers in the world according to the ESPN World Salsa Championships?
Alma Latina Dance Company:Yes, we are currently ranked 5thin the world and this year we want to go back and rank higher if possible! It is really hard because you compete with the best in the world and everybody is improving and getting ready- there’s no way to get an advantage…so imagine!!! But I think we could do something good this year…
Ritmo Bello: How was your experience at the San Diego Salsa Festival this year?
Alma Latina Dance Company:Great! We closed the show on Friday and performed the 2nd to last number on both Saturday and Sunday- just before Yamulee from NYC closed the show- and after great dancers like Adolfo Indacochea, Hacha y Machete etc.- what a compliment! We were incredibly flattered by the fact that we got standing ovations on Friday and Sunday.
Ritmo Bello: In your opinion, what is the best thing about dancing salsa in San Diego ?
Alma Latina Dance Company:Everything! The people are genuine and nice, there is a huge number of incredible dancers, and everyone has a good attitude.
Ritmo Bello: I’ve noticed that there are a number of videos on YouTube showcasing your salsa dancing. How do you feel about being a virtual salsa celebrity for the YouTube crowd?
Alma Latina Dance Company:I think that YouTube has helped us a lot. We find a lot of people who have never seen us in person but they follow us on YouTube. We have even had people hire us based on that- can you believe it? We hardly can!
Ritmo Bello: Is there anything else you’d like to share with the Ritmo Bello readers about your dance company and yourselves that we haven’t covered yet?
Alma Latina Dance Company:We want to thank you and all of the San Diego salsa community for your support! We feel really blessed to be teaching here where people really believe in us.
Ritmo Bello: Do you have contact information in case anyone from the Ritmo Bello audience wants to contact you?
Alma Latina Dance Company:Yes- please contact us- we are still growing and want to serve the needs of the San Diego Community!
As any salsa dancer will tell you, it’s ten times better dancing to live music as compared to recorded music. The obvious reason for this is that the salsa dancer can really connect with the energy, enthusiasm, and excitement of the live entertainer as the performance goes on.
Johnny Polanco and his group La Conjunto Amistad are a prime example of how great live salsa music is to the dancer and listener alike. With years of experience in the salsa music world, Johnny Polanco is a rare gem that plays frequently in the Southern California area. I had a chance to talk with Johnny Polanco before his upcoming performance at Anthology night club this Saturday October 17 and learned that if something is to be done, you ‘DO IT WITH SALSA!’ I hope you enjoy the interview which follows below.
Ritmo Bello:Johnny, thanks for taking the time to address the Ritmo Bello dance community. Let’s begin. What would you say is the main focus of your salsa music?
Johnny Polanco:Hi John. The main focus of my music are two reasons. One is to make everyone dance. Secondly is to give the listener a great visual through our performances. Everyone listens to CD’s. But it’s a lot different when you actually see it “live”. The listener can actually feel and absorb the music. It becomes more versatile. And the most important issue about a “live” performance is that the number can be stretched out a little longer, thus letting the band be more creative. Especially during the solos.
Tito Puente once told me, “Live tells no lie”. AND THAT’S SO TRUE. In this age of recording and digital “Pro Tools” you can do wonders in the recording studio. But you can “clean it up live”!
Ritmo Bello:What are the origins of your salsa music career?
Johnny Polanco:My career begin in the Bronx, New York City. I performed with various bands, in the earlier days, but the first known band I played with was with JOHNNY PACHECO and PETE “EL CONDE” RODRIGUEZ. I was 17 years old.
Ritmo Bello: Why did you choose La Conjunto Amistad for your band name?
Johnny Polanco:I choose Conjunto Amistad because the band was composed of all of my friends.
Ritmo Bello: What types of influences have impacted how you’ve created your salsa music?
Johnny Polanco:The conjunto music of ARSENIO RODRIGUEZ, who is one of the most well known Cuban tres guitar players. Also the BIG 3 bands of the fifties that consisted of TITO PUENTE, TITO RODRIGUEZ and MACHITO. The sounds of trio music like LOS PONCHOS and TRIO MATAMOROS also played a role.
And believe it or not, the music of the big band era featuring FRANK SINATRA, TONY BENNETT, JOE WILLIAMS, SARAH VAUGHN and many others from that era were so musically rich for me to listen.
Ritmo Bello:How and where do you find inspiration for creating new salsa songs?
Johnny Polanco:The inspirations come to me in spurts. That’s why I always try to have something to write notes or my cell phone to record the moments. My song feature all different types of topics. If you listen to my latest CD, “AMISTAD PARA EL MUNDO ENTERO” you will see the many topics.
Ritmo Bello:What has your experience been like working withDimelo Records?
Johnny Polanco:My experiences with Dimelo Records has been an enjoyable one and something that I wish I would have done years ago. Nissim Baly is a great guy and is very business savvy in the direction that the recording industry has been heading. He possesses very strong marketing skills and that has contributed immensely in the success of the bands under his label. Not to mention his assistant Valerie Guzman. She is definitely on the ball at the office.
RitmoBello: Can you tell me a little about your CD’s that you’ve released to date?
Johnny Polanco: Absolutely. Amistad Para El Mundo Enterois my best production yet. It has 14 original, never recorded numbers. It features some of the best musicians in Salsa music today such as RAY DE LA PAZ, FRANKIE VASQUEZ, AZUQUITA, FRANKIE MORALES, JIMMY BOSCH, ARTIE WEBB, NINO JESUS and others. The production was great. It took a while but I’m very happy with it. I also put on it, my version of ”Happy Birthday”. It has been very popular in all the clubs.
Ritmo Bello: Are there current plans for new CD releases coming up soon?
Johnny Polanco: The last CD has only been out for 9 months and DIMELO RECORDS is going to release it on their label soon. My next CD is going to be recorded live on a venue to be announced later. I feel that this will really capture the true sound of the band.
Ritmo Bello: I’ve noticed that there are a number of videos on YouTube showcasing your salsa music. How has YouTube and other types of social media like Facebook and Twitter helped you gain more exposure worldwide?
Johnny Polanco:It truly has. My music has reached places throughout the world that I haven’t traveled to yet. We have had the pleasure of working with Albert Torres, who has been my personal manager for 15 years. And he is helping create and participate at all these Salsa Congresses world wide. These types of social medias have been a blessing. Also non commercial radio has played an important part also. They play everyones music and we are very blessed to have Canto Tropical and Alma Del Barrio here in Los Angeles.
Ritmo Bello:What are some of your best memories from your performances? Are there any in particular that stand out in your mind?
Johnny Polanco: Oh GOD, there are so many because each of those have left me with something unique. Such as performing for our new L.A. Philharmonic conductor from Venezuela, Gustavo Dumadel a couple of weeks ago at the Hollywood Bowl. He is the first Hispanic to lead this great orchestra. Working with Prince in Las Vegas was great too. He is an extraordinary musician. Doing the 2007 Playboy Jazz Festival., the 50th Anniversary of the Grand Prix in Macau. Doing our Mayor’s Inaugural Ball. And the many Salsa Congresses throughout the world such as in Spain, Toronto, Japan, New York, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Vancouver etc.
Ritmo Bello: I’ve seen you perform in San Diego in the past. How often do you make it down to San Diego and when can we expect to see you again in America’s Finest City?
Johnny Polanco:I don’t perform as much as I like but I will be performing Sat Oct 17th at Anthology. This is the premier venue to perform in San Diego. It is such a beautiful supper club with great sound, food and hospitality. I am so looking forward to it!
Ritmo Bello: What advice can you give to up and coming salsa singers?
Johnny Polanco:The best advice is to listen to the old stuff from the early years. Especially from the 70′s. All those guys are now salsa legends now. PERIOD. I had the pleasure of working with many of them. Their sonero’s and deliveries are unmatched. Any vocalist after that era will tell you that they were influenced by them. If they don’t admit it, they are just plain lying.
Ritmo Bello: Is there anything else you’d like to share that I haven’t covered so far?
Johnny Polanco: You covered many of the issues that are important to me. But the final thing I would like to say is to please support live entertainment. It take an enormous commitment for someone to get musicians together and form a band. And a lot of work to get music and the administrative side of it in getting booked. It’s not easy. But we do it to spread the music, make you feel good, help you meet new friends, dance to great songs, see musicians do what we do best and let’s face it guys. The most beautiful women in the world are dancing to salsa and waiting for you. So if you guys aren’t Salsa dancing, you better get some lessons because you are DEFINITELY missing out. Most clubs offer lessons. So you have no excuse. Ever wonder where your best friends at? He is at a salsa club dancing away with the girl of your dreams Ha, Ha.
Ritmo Bello:Do you have contact information in case anyone from the Ritmo Bello audience wants to contact you?
Johnny Polanco:Yes. My website iswww.johnnypolanco.net Also we have a hotline where you can find out where we are at on a weekly basis at 562-220-4929.
Ritmo Bello:Johnny, thank you so much for your time and I hope to attend some of your salsa performances in the near future.
Over the last few years, San Diego has experienced a surge of interest with the dance known as bachata. Indeed, many clubs in San Diego now cater to this dance exclusively by hosting bachata nights and playing music for this growing group. Amidst these changes a number of individuals have emerged to help San Diego move further into this genre. One of those leaders is Anthony Umina who has taken it upon himself to spread the gospel of bachata dancing here in San Diego. I had a great opportunity to meet with him and talk with him about these changes concerning bachata. I hope you enjoy the interview below.
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Ritmo Bello: Anthony, thanks for agreeing to sit down for an interview. Let’s begin. Originally you began as a salsa dancer and found your way into bachata dancing. How did you go about making that transition?
Anthony Umina: Thank you for having me and expressing interest in Bachatamante Dance Co. Yes, I began salsa dancing in Fall of 2006 and slowly started social dancing bachata at the clubs near the end of 2008. It’s funny, because before that I had heard bachata played at different socials and clubs in the Bay Area, but never really knew what it was or how to dance it. I actually remember a specific incident where I told the DJ (DJ Jazzy Jez – aka Jesse) who is a good friend of mine, that he was playing too much bachata, nobody knew how to dance it, and it wasn’t any good! I’ll always remember his response to me, “Dude, You don’t even know. Just wait, Bachata is going to be the next BIG craze.” Little did I know, he was SO right! Within a year after that incident I took my first bachata class with Nestor Manuelian at the 2008 West Coast Salsa Congress in Los Angeles, CA. At first I thought it was alright and it was just another dance and another 8 count of steps. It wasn’t until I was exposed to wide spread Bachata Scene in Sydney, Australia did I realize how beautiful the dance actually was. From my experience, Sydney’s Bachata Scene was almost equivalent to Salsa in terms of popularity and performance teams! It was then that I wanted to experience more bachata and grow as a dancer. I kept it to social dancing while I was living in the Bay Area (San Jose, CA) , but after my move back to Los Angeles in November of 2008 I met an amazing couple who had their own Bachata Team. Jorge Contreras and Leslie Ferreira welcomed me in to their “Bachata Caliente” family with open arms! After dancing with them for a few months and performing at the San Francisco Bachata Festival I was asked to partner with the world renowned Josie Neglia and conduct workshops at the 1st Annual California Bachata Congress. And the rest is history!!
Ritmo Bello: I understand that you developed your dance skills in the Bay Area. Could you share with me what that experience was like?
Anthony Umina: Yes, San Jose to be exact. I was first introduced to “Latin” dance at San Jose State University. I took a curriculum class there for the sole purpose of covering one of my GE area’s. My very first dance teacher ever was the wonderful Joelle Maletis. I ended up falling in LOVE with it and I started going to all of the classes in my spare time. One of the best parts of the class, which I believe is the biggest aspect that sparked my interest, was the “field trips” we had to go to for homework. Joelle sent us to local clubs and studios to take outside lessons. After being with Joelle for about a year I joined Pretty Boys and Girls (aka PB&G) with the infamous Ricardo and Michelle! I was on their training team “Rising Stars” for about 8 months and at the culmination of that season they offered me a spot on the Pro Team! I was so honored to have danced with world class dancers. PB&G won the 1st Annual ESPN World Salsa Championships in the Team Division. My level of dancing progressed exponentially training with them. What also played a big part was the social dancing. The Bay Area has an amazing social dancing salsa scene. The median level of dancers as a whole is way up there! There are many trained dancers there and it’s a great place to learn because you’re constantly being challenged.
Ritmo Bello: I’ve heard that along with relocating to San Diego you also now co-direct at the popular Deseo Dance Co. How did you go about meeting Serena Cuevas and agreeing to become co-director with her?
Anthony Umina: Well just like the rest of the world I had known OF Serena for quite some time, but never really met her. It wasn’t until one night at Prospect when a friend of mine introduced us and told her to dance with me! We ended up dancing the next 4 songs in a row! Then we met again on Wednesday at La Jolla Marriott and that’s when she dropped the question! She asked if I would be interested in moving down to San Diego to be her partner and Co-Directing Deseo with her or at least commuting down once or twice a week for rehearsals. I was extremely flattered by her offer and that is an understatement. Immediately, I told her I was interested and that we could definitely talk more about it. By that next week I was living in San Diego!!! And it has been one of the best decisions of my life thus far and I am so grateful for Serena giving me this wonderful opportunity. I have been truly blessed with all of the people in my life and how far my endeavors have taken me. When everything falls into place so smoothly and perfectly you can only be assured that they’re meant to be!
Ritmo Bello: Given that you’re focusing more on bachata dance now, what is it about the dance that sets it apart from other Latin dances like salsa or cha cha cha for you?
Anthony Umina: Well, the main and most obvious difference I would have to say is the music. It has a very distinct and noticeable arrangement. With some of the same instruments such as the piano, bongos, congas, bass, and clave’ the addition of an amplified guitar is a huge difference. The way the bongos are played in bachata allows for more syncopation. While salsa, cha-cha, and merengue can be danced sensual nothing can compare to the connection of bachata. With all the body and hip movement that can be incorporated into bachata it is very easy to dance with great musicality. It also feels really nice when you can connect with another human being so well and be able to lead somebody with any part of your body, whether it be your hands, hips, knees, feet, shoulders, chest, etc.! You really “Dance as one” when you dance bachata. The difference in terms of music is that bachata is played in an 8 count where the split is 4/4 and the 4 and 8 holds are replaced with a tap of the foot and “pop” of the hip, if you will. Now, although bachata is typically danced side-to-side it is also danced in a circular motion and can essentially travel in any direction you wish as long as you are stepping on the correct counts. As we continue to push the boundaries of bachata and create new styles, hits, steps, and moves there will always be different ways to dance bachata. Dominican, Moderna, Urbana, Tango, and Traditional are all different styles that are danced nowadays.
Ritmo Bello: I heard that you are creating San Diego’s first 100% bachata dance focused dance troupe. What can you share with the Ritmo Bello readers about this endeavor and what we can all expect?
Anthony Umina: YUP! 100% Bachata Team! I wanted to move down here to spread the fire, passion, and bachata craze. It started when Serena put me in contact with Evelio from Rumba Entertainment and our first conversation must have lasted almost 3 hours! Evelio and I threw around a lot of ideas and that’s when I decided to make my move full-time and more permanent, instead of just once or twice a week for Deseo practices. As stated before, I danced with Bachata Caliente in Los Angeles and I absolutely loved everything they were doing with their team, performances, and traveling. It felt really good to have a tight-knit group that shared the same passion and interest. I thought it would be cool to create something like that of my own and with San Diego having an untapped bachata market it made my decision easy. Now, as for what San Diego can expect…there will be a new breed and expansion of Bachata dancing. With mixes of Moderna, Domincan, and Urban, Bachatamante will create its own unique style and contribute to the already vastly growing bachata World. We will have training and performance teams that will be required to learn choreography, timing, technique, and body movements. Performing is always an option and not a requirement. We welcome people that want to become better dancers, but feel group classes can only get them so far, and privates are way too expensive! It is open level progressive so we don’t turn anybody away that wants to learn the Domincan dance of bachata. No experience or training necessary! For those that have a goal of performing and traveling, Bachatamante is already booked and confirmed for a few of the Bachata Congress’/Festivals around the world! San Diego Bachatero’s are very quickly getting put on the map and this is only the beginning!
Ritmo Bello: I know that you’ve been involved in a number of competitions for both salsa and bachata. Could you share some of your best memories from these competitions?
Anthony Umina: Actually, to tell you the truth, I have only been in 2 official competitions in my life! Other than 2 or 3 Jack and Jill’s I have entered in to at small clubs my very first competition was with Espie Hernandez from Laguna Rhythm. I met Espie one night at Stevens Steakhouse and 2 weeks later we competed on Television at the Conga Room Latin Dance Champs! We qualified and progressed to the semi-finals, but were eliminated in the first week. My 2ndcompetition was with Serena Cuevas and again, with only 2-3 weeks of preparation we found ourselves competing at the 1stAnnual Mayan World Bachata Championship Finals where we ended up taking home 2ndplace! I would say my favorite memory thus far was coming off the stage at the Mayan knowing that we nailed it! It had been our best performance yet, and it was so exhilarating having the entire Mayan crowd in front of us. Serena and I showed up with the mindset just to do our best and just have fun! I wanted to feel no pressure and I think it eased into us very well. Taking 2ndplace next to Christian Oviedo and Alien Ramirez was an honor, but at the same time it was a bit bittersweet because a lot of the competition were good friends and peers of mine, many of whom I really look up to and admire. So it was a bit difficult to take in. Healthy and fun competition is always good though!
Ritmo Bello: Do you think bachata music is going to outgrow salsa dancing in popularity?
Anthony Umina: I wouldn’t say bachata will outgrow or replace salsa in any means, but it is definitely becoming much more popular all over the globe. Slowly, but surely people are transitioning and learning bachata in addition to their salsa, cha-cha, merengue etc. For the beginners, I believe bachata is much more distinct and predominant with timing and hits that it makes it easy to dance when first starting out. Not to mention that the speed of bachata is much slower, which makes it less difficult for those with 2 left feet. So, I can see how appealing it would be to beginners and maintain a steady growth.
Ritmo Bello: What advice can you give to people that are new to bachata dancing?
Anthony Umina: Listen to the Music! And work those hips and shoulders! You really got to loosen them up. It’s a dance of sensuality and one way for me to express sensuality with someone is through body movement and not only worrying about myself, but connecting your body movements to compliment your partners. Like I mentioned before, “Dance TOGETHER” literally, it’s like your bodies are glued together and are on the same heartbeat! Other than that I think bachata is much easier to adapt to than a few of the other Latin dances.
Ritmo Bello: Do you have contact information in case anyone from the Ritmo
Bello audience wants to contact you?
Anthony Umina: Yes, email is best.
Email:a.umina@gmail.com. Feel free to shoot me an email so you can be added to our weekly newsletter list for new information each week. Also….INTRODUCTORY RATE IF YOU SIGN UP BEFORE OCTOBER 4TH LOCK IN YOUR DISCOUNTED RATE NOW! Please email for more info.”
Cell: 626.251.6623
Our Home studio is Dance for 2 in Clairmont Mesa at 7528 Clairemont Mesa Drive where we host our weekly bachata classes from 3:00pm -5:00pm EVERY Sunday! =) Come on by!
Ritmo Bello: Anthony, Thank you so much for your time and good luck with you bachata dance plans for San Diego.
Anthony Umina: Thank you for sharing the interest and allowing me this opportunity to share a bit of my story and background with others. Hope to see you and your readers out on the dance floor soon!
If you’ve been a part of the salsa and Latin jazz music scene for a while I have no doubt you’d recognize Tito Puente. Known throughout the world as “El Rey” (the King) of the timbales and “The King of Latin Music,” Tito Puente left an incredible legacy of Latin jazz and mambo music.
Following in his father’s footsteps, Tito Puente Jr. continues that great musical tradition and brings new life to Latin jazz and mambo today. Tito Puente Jr. will be performing live in San Diego on September 5th at Anthology in downtown’s Little Italy district. Ritmo Bello was fortunate enough to connect with Tito Puente Jr. before his upcoming San Diego show and talk with him a bit about him being the standard bearer of Latin jazz royalty.
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Ritmo Bello: Tito Puente Jr., thanks for taking time to the talk to the Ritmo Bello readers about yourself and your music. Let’s begin with a question I’m sure you get all the time. How has being the son of the famous Tito Puente affected your decision to pursue a musical career for yourself?
Tito Puente Jr.: Music was always a part of me growing up, but by choice - my father never forced it on me. Of course, being my father’s son poses challenges in the sense that it’s next to impossible to follow or match such an incredible talent, so I’m very clear that my mission is not to try and compete, it’s simply to entertain audiences and carry the torch of my father’s music to a new generation of people.
Ritmo Bello: When and how did you begin your own musical career?
Tito Puente Jr.: I started in the mid 1980’s surrounding myself with all types of music growing up in New York City, where there were so many influences. Professionally I started on the trap drum kit when I was 16 years of age, working in different nightclubs in Manhattan, Bronx, Brooklyn and Queens.
Ritmo Bello: It’s clear that you are often compared to your father, Tito Puente and his musical style. For those unfamiliar with Tito Puente can you explain how you might be similar and different to his legacy?
Tito Puente Jr.: I think of course one blatant similarity is that I look a lot like him! I seem to have a connection with older fans that were fans of his and to younger ones as well. I have a certain quirkiness about me when I’m performing that people seem to enjoy. I dance and sing like my father did when he was younger in the 1950s, but I give it a modern edge, like a taste of Latino classic and urban mixed up with cha cha and mambo…
Ritmo Bello: How and where do you find inspiration for creating new music?
Tito Puente Jr.: My father taught me to always surround myself with creative people, as they will serve as inspiration…it works.
Ritmo Bello: I know that you have collaborated and performed with many notable artists in the salsa and Latin jazz world. What are your most memorable performances that you’ve had over the course of your career?
Tito Puente Jr.: Well, I’ve been fortunate to have many: Ricky Martin, Gloria Estefan, Celia Cruz and José Feliciano come to mind. But I think the most influential would have been with my father himself – being on stage together.
Ritmo Bello: Can you tell me a little about the albums that you’ve released to date?
Tito Puente Jr.: I’ve had three major label releases to date but the most exciting is my new album coming out next month entitled “Got Mambo?”. It’s a really exciting project where I step up my game with original material and some great guest artists like Jon Secada and others.
Ritmo Bello: Are there current plans for new CD releases coming up soon?
Tito Puente Jr.: “Got Mambo?” is scheduled for a late October release, along with a new music video, tour and the whole internet promotion scene.
Ritmo Bello: I know that you, like your father, are a master at percussion and in particular the timbales. What is it about this particular instrument that excites you the most? Are there other instruments that you feel comfortable performing with as well?
Tito Puente Jr.: I have to correct you – I am a student of percussion, not at all a master percussionist. I would hope through practice and time I could be. My father was a “master.”
Timbales have a distinct sound in all aspects of music plus it gives an engine to any song. I also enjoy piano and bass.
Ritmo Bello: On a side note, I know that you’ve expanded into different enterprises including acting as the official spokesperson for Havanera Co., a clothing line I absolutely love to wear myself. How has this and other experiences outside of your music affected your musical career?
Tito Puente Jr.: In today’s world attaching yourself to a brand is important. I like to be a part of certain brands which can help bring our Latin music to the masses. The consumer is looking for more now. Branding and endorsing certain products and items has helped me bring my music to other parts of the globe.
Ritmo Bello: My first contact with you was via Twitter and I was impressed to find you using the medium to reach out to your fans. How has social media like Twitter and Facebook impacted how you interact with your fan base?
Tito Puente Jr.: Amazing how Twitter and Facebook has gotten me directly in touch with the fans. It’s the new millennium of marketing and promotion for any artist out there. And yes it’s really me responding to you!!!
Ritmo Bello: Although I know that you perform great music, do you ever get an opportunity to dance to salsa or Latin music as well?
Tito Puente Jr.: I do, at home in front of my kids because that way I will look silly for them and not the rest of the world. I have great rhythm in my blood but it doesn’t seem to travel to my feet that well.
Ritmo Bello: I’ve heard that you’ve also given back to the community in a number of ways. Can you share with me some of the fundraising events you’ve supported?
Tito Puente Jr.: The cancer, leukemia, diabetes and AIDS foundations are the ones closest to my heart since I have people and personal friends who have these horrible diseases. I love animals as well so give back wherever I can for them.
Ritmo Bello: Is there anything else you’d like to share with the San Diego salsa and Latin dance community that we haven’t covered yet?
Tito Puente Jr.: Get ready to mambo and cha cha the night away on September 5th at Anthology…and bring your dancing shoes!
Ritmo Bello: Do you have contact information in case anyone from the Ritmo Bello audience wants to contact you?
Ritmo Bello: Tito Puente Jr., it has been an honor to talk to you today. On behalf of the San Diego salsa dance community and Ritmo Bello thank you for your time!
Tito Puente Jr.: Muchas gracias and thank you to all the Tito Puente fans and the new Tito Puente, Jr. fans…I’m looking forward to seeing everyone!
Salsa dancing is truly an international phenomenon. Although the majority of salsa dance songs are in Spanish, the actual dance is enjoyed all over the world by all types of people. A friend of mine named Tarrence is lucky enough to travel all over the world and he’s shared stories of the great salsa dancing he’s found in places like China and Japan. He introduced me to Eiko Tanaka, an accomplished salsa dancer that lives in Japan and we talked about salsa dancing’s effect on the country. I hope you enjoy the interview!
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Ritmo Bello: Eiko, thanks for agreeing to sit down for an interview. Let’s begin. Many people in the United States don’t realize that salsa dancing is really popular in Japan. What is the salsa dance scene like where you live in Japan?
Eiko Tanaka: Hello, it is my pleasure and thank you so much for having me.
With regards to the salsa scene in Japan, I don’t know the exact figure, but I have noticed that the salsa population has grown quite a bit within the past 10 years. Many people have visited the US to take salsa classes to study and partly due to the increase of salsa Congresses around the world, I think people have become aware of the spread of salsa in an international scale.
Ritmo Bello: I understand that you learned salsa dancing outside of Japan. What was your first contact with salsa dancing? How has salsa dancing affected your life?
Eiko Tanaka: My first contact with salsa was in Cuba. I particularly liked the traditional Cuban son dance and music but I also liked the Cuban “casino” which I believe what people refer to it as ”Cuban salsa”. I enjoy all styles of salsa and it really gives me a lot of joy.
Ritmo Bello: I know that you manage a dance company now in Japan. What are the origins of your dance company? Is there a story to how it was formed? Do you perform at any of the Salsa Congresses or festivals?
Eiko Tanaka: My dance group is an all female show dance group. My choreography is based on ballet, contemporary, afro-cuban as well as Cuban popular dance, all of which I learned at the dance school of “Tropicana” night club in Havana, Cuba. I also incorporate salsa movements and steps. I have performed in many festivals and Congresses including the Japan Salsa Congress and the LA (West Coast) Salsa Congress. I will be performing at the Japan Salsa Congress this year.
Ritmo Bello:For someone like myself that has never been to Japan what can you share with readers about the best way of finding out about salsa dance events happening in Japan?
Eiko Tanaka:Yes there are many salsa events every month, and as far as Tokyo is concerned there is the Salsa Hotline Night which is a salsa event that takes place every month and in June 2009 marked the 139th event. Almost all the groups that perform in the Japan Salsa Congress and other Congresses participate in this event to showcase their performance. And of course in addition to that, there are many events at various salsa clubs.
Ritmo Bello: What has been your best memory from your salsa dance experiences?
Eiko Tanaka: My best memory would have to be when I danced at the stage of Tropicana show . Established in 1939, Tropicana used to be the playground for the rich and famous before the revolution, and it became known as the most attractive, luxurious nightclub in the world. Al Capone hung out there, Carmen Miranda, Josephine Baker and Nat King Cole performed there. Today the place is one of Cuba`s main tourist attraction. To me it is such a magical place and feel incredibly lucky to have had the experience.
Ritmo Bello: I know you actually conducted professional photography while in Cuba as well. Can you tell our Ritmo Bello readers a little bit about that time?
Eiko Tanaka: Yes. I lived in Cuba from 1998-2000. I met this photographer called Raul Corrales who was one of the most respected photographers in Cuba. He had been the official photographer of Fidel Castro for few years and also had documented Cuba during the revolutionary era as well as taken photos of people like Che Guevara and Ernest Hemingway. He has given me many valuable advices on photography and I developed and printed all my photos in the dark room I made in the bathroom. My interest was in capturing the life of the Cuban people but I mainly took photographs of Tropicana dancers backstage. I am actually planning to publish a black and white photography this year.
Ritmo Bello: Do you have any plans of visiting San Diego, California in the near future?
Eiko Tanaka: I would love to visit San Diego one day. If I have the opportunity to participate in LA Congress I will stop by San Diego.
Ritmo Bello: What advice can you give to people that are new to salsa dancing?
Eiko Tanaka: It’s a beautiful and fun dance form so just enjoy it! It’s important to feel the music and not get too caught up in the technique.
Ritmo Bello: Do you have contact information in case anyone from the Ritmo Bello audience wants to contact you?
Eiko Tanaka: Yes people can email me at eikotropicana@yahoo.co.jp. I also have a web site www.eikotropicana.com
Ritmo Bello: Eiko, Thank you so much for your time and I hope to travel to Japan sometime to salsa dance with you!
Eiko Tanaka: Thank you so much and I hope you will visit us one day !!
San Diego is known for it’s beautiful beaches, near perfect weather, and an evolving salsa dance scene. I mention the last point because over the last few years San Diego has experienced a new genesis of energy and excitement in Latin dance. One salsa dancer in particular, Serena Cuevas, is credited with bringing salsa dancing to the national spotlight through her recent work with Gatorade on their new G2 products.
Serena Cuevas, director of Deseo Dance, shared some of her thoughts about her own development in salsa dancing and where it is going here in San Diego. Enjoy the interview below!
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Ritmo Bello: Serena Cuevas, thanks for taking some time out of your busy schedule to address the Ritmo Bello audience. San Diego’s salsa dance scene is always expanding with new talent and your dance company Deseo Dance is a great example of this fact. What does Deseo Dance offer to the San Diego dance community that’s different from other local dance studios?
Serena Cuevas: I train my dancers to feel movements first. Counts, timing, and technique are key factors to learning and progression but you’ll really go no-where in the long run without ‘feeling’ the moves and making them your own.
Ritmo Bello: Every dancer has a story about how they first found salsa dancing and how they first started to dance. Can you tell me a little about how you came in contact with salsa dancing?
Serena Cuevas: I was 11 years old and my dad had shown me the basic…”1,2,3… 5,6,7…”. Without counts, just “back, together, forward, together”. It was so fun for me but I wanted more! My mom had been taking private Ballroom lessons and so she starting bringing me along. I watched and loved it even more! I starting taking over my mom’s private lessons and performing locally in studio shows. I knew this was it for me.
Ritmo Bello: As one of San Diego’s newer dance companies what are the main goals you want to accomplish as an organization?
Serena Cuevas: Being on successful teams I’ve learned a lot about the way goals are met. I have grown so much with Majesty in Motion. David and Jen have done an amazing job with their company and I believe I have a lot to do if I’m heading that route. I definitely admire what it takes to be a successful director and work towards that.
First, of course come my teammates; for my teams and company as a whole I plan on building them as dancers AND athletes. It’s important not to forget that what we do takes a toll on our bodies and recovery from injury means not being able to pursue your passion. In the future, I’d like Deseo to be an athletic representation of Salsa.
Ritmo Bello: What types of teams do you currently have in formation and where do they compete?
Serena Cuevas:Deseo is not a competing team by any means; we enjoy dancing for expressive and passionate purposes. I have 3 teams right now: Deseo Ladies (Advanced Ladies Styling), Deseo Lumbre (Beginner Partnering), and Deseo (Advanced Partnering).
Ritmo Bello: If someone is interested in joining your dance team what advice can you give them? Do they have to have prior dance experience?
Serena Cuevas: Call me and we will set up a private audition. They take about 30 min and we can schedule them anytime. Let me know soon as my schedule is often full. You do not need prior experience for the group classes but for all teams, yes, knowledge of On2 dancing is strongly recommended.
Ritmo Bello:Recently you’ve gained some great exposure from your work in the Gatorade G2 commercial with Serena Williams. How did you become involved in this project with Gatorade?
Serena Cuevas:They contacted me actually. It was a surprise and I did not believe it at first but one call and email after another, then a competition in LA and before I knew it, I won the ‘Search for the Next Serena’ for the G2 campaign competition! It was unreal and amazing at the same time.
Ritmo Bello:Will we be seeing you in future Gatorade commercials or maybe even other types of productions?
Serena Cuevas: Yes. I believe Gatorade still has a few plans in the works for me. Also, I was recently contacted by a producer working with an amazing director and choreographer for an upcoming movie to release in 2010. Very exciting although nothing is in stone. I will keep you posted as soon as I am allowed!
Ritmo Bello: In your opinion, what’s the best aspect of being a salsa dancer in San Diego today?
Serena Cuevas:The diversity! All the dance companies specialize in something different and there is so much opportunity to grow! Students have a ton of choices for clubs, teams, shows, training, etc. Very cool.
Ritmo Bello: What do you like the most about being a professional salsa dancer?
Serena Cuevas: I love loving what I do. Performing is by far my favorite feeling, but training dancers and seeing the progression is unbelievable!
Ritmo Bello: Anything else you’d like to share with the general public?
Serena Cuevas: Yes! Saturday June 6th I am hosting an amazing workshop/fundraiser for my baby neice Gia! I have created an event where all the directors in San Diego have a class to teach and with cross promotion and this amazing line-up I believe this day will really benefit both SD and baby Gia! You can read her story on our homepage : www.DeseoDance.com . She really needs us San Diego! (Special Note: To Find out more information about the event and RSVP for it check out the event page on the San Diego Salsa and Latin Dancing Meetup Group.)
Ritmo Bello: How can the Ritmo Bello audience reach you if they want to find out more information about you and Deseo Dance?
Serena Cuevas: Please go to www.DeseoDance.com anytime and email me if you have any questions.
Ritmo Bello: Serena Cuevas on behalf of Ritmo Bello and the San Diego salsa community thank you for all you do to promote salsa dancing!
Serena Cuevas: Thank you for supporting us! Salsa lives on because of how much we all contribute. Thank you John!
San Diego is known in the salsa world as a place where the dance is really expanding and constantly growing. Much of this expansion is due in large part because of the efforts of a local dance studio, A Time To Dance Studio. The owners of A Time To Dance Studio, Angel and Tulane, have been hard at work bringing great events like the San Diego Salsa Jam and the annual San Diego Salsa Festival here to San Diego. I had a great opportunity to talk with Angel and Tulane about their efforts to spread salsa dancing both locally and worldwide. I hope you all enjoy the interview!
Ritmo Bello: Angel and Tulane Rivera thank you both for taking time out of your schedules to address the Ritmo Bello audience. San Diego is a unique place for salsa dancing as seen by the different types of dance companies here locally. What makes A Time To Dance Studio unique in the San Diego salsa dance scene?
A Time To Dance Studio: Thanks for taking the time to interview us and to your audience for their support and dedication to Latin music and dance. Lets see… What makes us different?… We actually never really thought about what makes us different from other studios and or companies. We make it a point to keep our focus geared on what we have to do and never look to see what others are doing or not doing. We think of new ideas, classes, and programs and if they work and make sense we implement them. We also have a combined 20 + years of experience and are the only studio that we know of in San Diego with 2 locations. We love what we do and our goal is to continue to offer the best instruction and service in San Diego. We go one day at a time and take great pride in customer service and training our instructors to the best of our ability. We try our best to ensure our classes are fun, exciting, and technique orientated. We also offer drop in courses as well as 6 week progressive courses in salsa to increase learning curves and consistency for students (The salsa courses have been amazing success for us). We also host studio parties, promote salsa clubs and special events to give our students a place to practice and socially interact with others in the salsa scene. Beyond salsa we offer Belly Dance, Burlesque Jazz, Samba, Afro-Cuban, and Fitness based classes taught by other highly trained dance instructors. Our studio is a friendly, relaxed, cozy but professional family atmosphere that can easily be felt the moment you walk in. We have great plans for the future and God willing we’ll be able to see them through… whether or not it’s in dance is up to HIM…
Ritmo Bello: I always like to learn how people first find and become involved in salsa dancing. Can you tell me each a little about how you each began dancing salsa?
A Time To Dance Studio:I began dancing salsa in 2001 (I was 20 at the time with absolutely no dance experience) and Tulane started dancing at the early age of 7 (She trained in International Ballroom) in London England. I started dancing to actually meet new people since I was new to San Diego (Navy for 4 years). Tulane started dancing as a creative outlet and to stay out of trouble : ) . She left London at 15 and I left Chicago when I was 18. At 20 I decided to take private dance lessons at a downtown dance studio, then named Dance With Me Academy (This is probably the place where everyone that’s a veteran now started – Good times). Thats when I met Tulane… She was assigned as my dance instructor… I wanted to learn salsa but somehow got temporarily converted to ballroom for about 3 months. Although it was great training we started to focus on Salsa more as time went on. Through the months I got better (Tulane has always been a phenomenal dancer and choreographer) and before I knew it we formed Salsa Suave Dance Company, then San Diego’s 2nd dance company. We danced together socially and I began to get approached by students asking me if I taught. I decided to drop out of an officer program through the navy to pursue a new life… Thats pretty much how we both started in a nutshell. 2 people from 2 different countries that left home at an early age seeking something new. Salsa dance brought us together and we haven’t stopped since : )
Ritmo Bello:That is a great story! What motivated you to create A Time To Dance Studio?
A Time To Dance Studio:As we got busier and busier we had to move from studio to studio to accommodate the demand of students. It was a headache at times… moving always meant losing clients no matter how good you were… That was one of the determining factors of why we started our own studio. However our main motivation came out of a dance ministry that Tulane started at our church. It was a fun hip hop / salsa youth ministry called “A Time To Dance. The name was inspired from the Bible… Ecclesiastes 3:4… our pastor had always encouraged us and instilled the vision that we would one day own our own studio. Long story short… an opportunity arose to open a dance studio and we followed our faith and dreams to what we have today. We decided to keep A Time To Dance since it was originally inspired through our ministry and our Faith. Owning a dance studio has always been one of Tulane’s goals & dreams… I’m grateful that I was able to be a part of it… I never really thought I’d be dancing, teaching, and an owner of dance studios, ( I always wanted to fly Fighter Jets ) but its been great! Owning studios has taught us so much… Great sacrifice, huge responsibilities and a lot of character building trials and tribulations… Well worth it.
Ritmo Bello: I understand that you have 15 professional dancers, choreographers, and teachers that work with you at A Time to Dance Studios? Do they all focus on salsa dance?
A Time To Dance Studio:Not all… We hire instructors that are professionals at their genre of dance. We try to focus on what we are good at and offer classes that help inspire health, fitness & a good time. We do however train our in house dancers in salsa, cha cha, and ballroom for our different array of clients and invite guest instructors/coaches to give their expertise and advice on specific dances at times. We are also a certified ISTD dance studio and assist our instructors to certify once a year as well. We offer hip hop, belly dance, afro cuban, samba, and fitness class such as Zumba, Dance Fitness, and some pilates classes. We do our best to offer great, energetic, & fun classes throughout the week and offer competitive prices to keep people coming back for more… We also started our own student salsa dance team… Doing very well… They should be ready to perform again in a couple of months.
Ritmo Bello:I’ve heard from your students that you employ a unique teaching method called “inter-related system” instruction. What is that all about and how does this impact your student’s learning of the dance?
A Time To Dance Studio: It allows our students to learn dances that relate to one another. Our goal is to interchangeably relate dances which in turn allows the student to remember the mechanics easier. This system has allowed our students to advance much quicker, learn various dances faster, and retain the material more effectively. It’s a style that we have incorporated over the years that has worked wonders when applied. We’re still working on some other teaching methods and will be instituted once we decide to open more studios in the future.
Ritmo Bello:As Assistant Organizers of the San Diego Salsa and Latin Dancing Meetup Group I know that you help organize many great events here in San Diego such as your studio parties and the San Diego Salsa Jam. What do these events offer to somebody brand new to salsa dancing?
A Time To Dance Studio: Ya… Our desire to organize events started to happen after 2005. This was the year Tulane and I traveled to 4 different countries performing, teaching, and choreographing. Although it was fun traveling, teaching abroad, and seeing different countries, it really didn’t stick with us. We didn’t really see the benefit of traveling all the time and from a business standpoint at the time it didn’t make sense for us. Tulane and I like business… Running, creating, and being behind the scenes. My analogy is like an actor becoming a director… Why act forever when you can direct… A lot harder work, more sacrifice, extremely high risk both financially and physically but the benefits are far greater in the long run. It’s not for everyone but it was for us… Being in the drivers seat allows us to offer events, workshops, and festivals with our vision in mind. Our goal is to continue to offer excellent events for the new dancer and the veteran alike… Many venues come and go so we’re always on the look out… Our goal with events that we produce is to offer fun, exciting, and professional atmospheres with the best latin music and dancing around… Local clubs and events also give new dancers a chance to see what they potentially can obtain… Gives them a visual goal and motivates students to get better. Check us out online… www.sandiegosalsajam.com- www.atimetodance.com - www.sandiegosalsafestival.com to join us at our next class and or event.
Ritmo Bello:The San Diego Salsa Festival is coming up again in September of this year and I know that you are hard at work preparing for this great event with Albert Torres. Can you explain who Albert Torres is and what the San Diego Salsa Festival is all about to those new to salsa dancing?
A Time To Dance Studio:Albert Torres is the world’s most successful and foremost recognized promoter of Latin Music and Dance. He also promotes and produces the WORLD SALSA CONGRESS in Los Angeles, coming up in May. The San Diego Salsa Festival/Congress is an event that brings talent from across the country and abroad to San Diego, Ca. The goal is to give the San Diego community a taste of the talented instructors and performers outside of the San Diego salsa community. Its now in its 3rd year and getting better. This year’s event is going to showcase great dancers and Live Music ( Something we’ve been trying to emphasize at our Salsa Jams) like never before. The event will consist of Workshops all day Saturday and Sunday, Live Professional Dance Shows each night, and social dancing Thursday thru Sunday til 3-4 in the morning. Pretty much a salsa dancer and latin music lovers dream. We’ll have vendors selling shoes, and dance apparel as well as live music on Friday and Saturday night. Check us out online www.sandiegosalsafestival.com- you can purchase your tickets and make hotel reservations online today!
Ritmo Bello: In your opinions, what makes salsa dancing such a great activity to pursue?
A Time To Dance Studio: It’s the only form of dance in our experience that we’ve found in every city and country we’ve visited. It’s a great way to meet new people, get into shape, and has no cultural or racial barriers. Everyone dances salsa even if they can’t understand the words… The music just pulsates through the dancers and moves us… It’s a great way to pursue a healthy social life and have fun. Who knows… You may even find your life partner as I did : ) …. Maybe not…
Ritmo Bello:The San Diego salsa scene has seen many changes over the years. What trends do you see taking hold for the future of salsa dancing in San Diego?
A Time To Dance Studio: Like anything else… it takes many years to cultivate the ground for longevity… San Diego has come a long way and is still growing… Still has a lot of room to grow and develop which is great & exciting. Our last Salsa Jam is an example of that growth… Not a lot of veteran dancers or instructors out… but wow… There were a lot of new faces that I have never seen before… So many newbies to the salsa scene that love salsa and especially live music. This is what we see as being the next trend… A new wave of dancers and live music. Live music is something that has room for tremendous growth… I’m talking about live concerts with big names – Cheo Feliciano, Spanish Harlem, El Gran Combo, etc… I just hope San Diego and the scene can support these events no matter who promotes them… Without the music and supporting the musicians we wouldn’t have the music we love today!
Ritmo Bello: Is there anything else you’d like to share with dance community?
A Time To Dance Studio:Try to support as many venues as possible… Whoever promotes them… It’s hard work and high risk promoting live events, clubs, and festivals. Keep dancing and always have fun doing it…
Ritmo Bello:The Ritmo Bello audience may want to contact you regarding some of the topics discussed here. How can members reach you for further information?
Ritmo Bello:Angel and Tulane, on behalf of Ritmo Bello and the San Diego salsa community thank you for all you do to promote salsa here in San Diego and around the world. A Time To Dance Studio:It was our pleasure… And thank you for interviewing us… You do an outstanding job keeping the latin music and dance scene informed and going strong…
I love listening to live salsa music when I go out to dance. I especially love being able to listen to salsa bands that have women as the lead singers since there seems to be a dearth of these bands. Indeed, it seems like there are not many salsa bands that feature singers similar to those like the late Celia Cruz.
You can imagine how happy I was to find out about Choco Orta. Choco Orta, an established salsa “Sonera” from Puerto Rico, has been gaining in popularity for her unique salsa compositions and great performance energy. I recently sat down with Choco Orta to find out more about her music and how she is keeping women salsa singers at the forefront of the music genre. Enjoy!
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Ritmo Bello: Choco Orta, thank you for taking time to let the Ritmo Bello audience learn more about you and your music. I wanted to start out with a basic question that I ask anyone I interview, namely what is the main focus of your music?
Choco Orta: First of all Mr. Bello, thank you so much for interviewing me. I appreciate your supporting my latest musical project which is titled “Ahora Mismo…Choco Orta“. I love to sing from the heart, to touch the essence of my audience’s soul. That’s really what motivates me.
Ritmo Bello: When and how did you begin your singing career?
Choco Orta: I took singing classes with Darisabel Isales, non-professionally when I was in the sixth grade.I sang at my graduation in 1973, and later in 1980 with the Salsa Fever Orchestra. In 2001, I was asked to be part of the Banco Popular Raices CD which featured Willie Sotelo & La Mundial Orchestra, Willie Rosario and Mr.Gilberto Santarosa.
Ritmo Bello: How did you get the nickname “Choco Orta” for your professional stage name?
Choco Orta: When I was studying dance, a student asked me if it was okay for him to call me Chocolate for the color of my skin, and I agreed.
Ritmo Bello: I understand that you are often compared to Celia Cruz and her style of singing. For those unfamiliar with Celia can you explain how you might be similar and different to her legacy?
Choco Orta: Because of her commitment to Latin music, her feelings about the Salsa genre, her strong and mesmerizing impact on stage. Because, like her, I would love to live the rest of my life as a sonera and die singing.
Ritmo Bello: What types of influences have impacted how you’ve created your salsa music?
Choco Orta: Coming from a family of humble means who lived in a barrio located in Santurce, Puerto Rico, gave me the opportunity to express through music what I was living everyday. I was literally surrounded by music, and this environment gave me the chance to practice everyday — everywhere. Be it on a neighborhood street corner where my friends and I sang our hearts out to the seductive beats of typical percussion instruments like the congas, bongos, clave and guiro; or in the privacy of my parent’s living room where I would continue to sing daily with passion and pride.
Ritmo Bello: I’ve heard the term “Sonera” used to describe you. For those unfamiliar with this term can you explain what this means?
Choco Orta: As I understand it, a Sonera is someone who improvises verses to tell a story through singing. Soneando, as it is commonly called, is a creative vehicle used to embellish the message of a story without compromising its essence. This type of singing is as old as the hills. It’s a beautiful component of the Latino culture which will never go out of style, and it holds a very special place in my heart. For it allows me to reach my audience on yet another level.
Ritmo Bello: How and where do you find inspiration for creating new salsa songs?
Choco Orta: Life gives me the inspiration I need to compose songs. I am inspired by its beauty and challenges. Life is the motivational force behind my creativity, for it is a song in and of itself. Breathing, walking, talking. It all plays a role in what I say and how I say it.
Ritmo Bello: Where have you performed?
Choco Orta: I have performed in many places around the world. For example, at the Center of Fine Arts in Puerto Rico; The National Theater in the Dominican Republic; more than 12 cities in Colombia, including Cali, Buena Ventura, Tulua, Manizalez. I have also performed in France at a Club called Hammou as well as in Nice and in Spain in Leganes, Madrid and Castellón de la Plana. I have also shared a stage with Oscar de Leon, Celia Cruz, Pete el Conde and José Alberto “El Canario” at New York City’s Madison Square Garden. At S.O.B.’s, El Copacabana, the Latin Quarter, Hostos Community College, Lehman College, Orchard Beach in New York, Virginia Beach, Houston, Albany, St Thomas, and now in September of this year I will perform in the UK.
Ritmo Bello: Can you tell me a little about the albums that you’ve released to date?
Choco Orta: I have recorded with Salsa Fever, Tony Mapeye, Tribute to Vieques, El Chino, Willie Sotelo, Willie Rosario, Choco Sentimiento y Sabor, Choco La Reina del Sabor, and my recent cd that Mr. Gilberto Santarosa has produced for me and is titled ”Ahora Mismo….Choco Orta”.
“Ahora Mismo..Choco Orta” is comprised of several very danceable tunes. It is a great piece or art which pays tribute to the female Salsa singers of the past four decades: Celia Cruz, La Lupe and Graciela.
Ritmo Bello: Are there current plans for new CD releases coming up soon?
Choco Orta: At the moment I am working on promoting my new CD. I have a media tour in Puerto Rico that I will be doing the first two weeks in May. I am also planning to promote my cd in Miami, and it is being promoted in New York and other parts of the country as we speak. On the 22nd of May in Los Angeles, California, I will be performing at the Radisson Hotel at the biggest Salsa Congress in the United States, with Gilberto Santarosa and Jose El Canario. Albert Torres and Tito Ortos are producing the event.
Ritmo Bello: I know that you have collaborated and performed with many notable artists in the salsa world. What was your most memorable performance that you’ve had over the course of your career?
Choco Orta: Singing with Andy Montañez, Sammy Ayala, Yomo Toro, La India, Tommy Olivencia’s Orchestra, Cheo Feliciano, Victor Manuelle, Tite Curet Alonso. Once I was in a jam session with Mr. Tito Puente, Nick Marrero, Chocolate Armenteros and Joe Santiago which was awesome. I also performed with Mr. Gilberto Santarosa at a Salsa Congress in San Juan, Puerto Rico. The opportunity to perform with all of these wonderful artists has truly been unforgettable. However, singing with La Reina de la Salsa, Ms. Celia Cruz, as well as Oscar de Leon, and Jose Alberto El Canario at Madison Square Garden was another experience that will stay with me forever.
Ritmo Bello: Do you have any plans to travel to the West Coast soon, possibly San Diego?
Choco Orta: Yes. As I mentioned earlier, I will be in LA for the Salsa Congress on the 22nd of May, sharing a stage with Gilberto Santarosa and Jose Alberto El Canario. Another dream come true for me. I hope to perform in San Diego before the end of the year.
Ritmo Bello: Do you have contact information in case anyone from the Ritmo Bello audience wants to contact you?
Choco Orta: Yes. They can contact me at my MySpace Page, or by dialing my office number during business hours which is 917-334-6481.
Ritmo Bello: Choco Orta, thank you for your time today. I hope I can attend one of your performances in the near future.
Choco Orta: Looking forward to it. Thank you once again for your time Mr. Bello. It was an absolute pleasure.
There are a number of salsa dance companies here in San Diego, California and while most of these companies are similar in many respects, there is always something unique about each one. This is especially true for Ooh La La Dance Company.Under the direction of Salsa Susie (a.k.a Susie Nguyen), this local dance company has pioneered new directions in professional dance through a fusion of salsa and burlesque dance styles.I sat down with Salsa Susie recently to talk a little bit about her experiences as a professional dancer and how she is pursuing her dreams through salsa dance.
Ritmo Bello: Susie, thanks for agreeing to sit down for an interview. Let’s begin. I’ve been hearing a lot lately about your dance company here in San Diego. What would you say is the main focus of your dance company?
Ooh La La Dance Company:Thank you John. It’sdefinitely an exciting time for Ooh La La Dance Company. I amapproaching my 1 YearAnniversary and I am so blessed & love how Ooh La La has become a Dancing Empire for dancers & aspiring dancers to call home. The #1 focus of Ooh La La Dance Company is make every dancer’s dream come true. My dreams have transpired into reality with Ooh La La Dance Company so I want salseros, dancers, average everyday people learn how to dance/perform & have a fabulous time doing it! Music is every dancer’s diet & dance feeds our soul. I am 100% committed and invested in teaching all my students whether they are beginners, advanced, young or old to dance, perform, compete, travel and create unforgettable memories in the process. We are having our 1 Year Anniversary coming up on Saturday, April 25th, 2009. It’s open to all ages! We are celebrating by having Ooh La La’s 50 dancers perform at the showcase! I’m having my 6-7 year Salsa Girls perform, my 10-12 year Dare Dance Kids perform, the Hot Tamales, Cosabellas, with guest dance teams such as Alma Latina Salsa Dance Company, Body Poets Breakdancers, DOC Hip Hop Dance Crew, and Sininho Samba come perform. The shows are in 2 Acts. Group Lessons Starts at 5pm-5:45pm by Salsa Susie. First Act starts at 6:30pm. Second Act starts at 7:15pm. Jack & Jill contest with $100 First Place Winners by Audience Applause. Salsa Dancing till 10pm. $10 admission fee goes towards fundraising money for our team’s costumes. The event will be held at FIREHOUSE LA JOLLA YMCA 7877 Herschel Avenue in La Jolla, CA 92037. We hope everybody comes to celebrate & support us!
Ritmo Bello: What are the origins of your dance company? Is there a story to how it was formed?
Ooh La La Dance Company:I started dancing at 14 years old. I began with stunts, lifts & tricks, cheerleading, hip hop and dancing on my high school & college dance teams. I always had dreams to be a fulltime dancer. I fell in love with teaching because I too started off with 2 left feet and therefore am very kind & patient to beginners. I could never afford classes so I would always watch & learn. I was self-taught and self-made until my hard work & talent started to shine and then I started to receive scholarships to take classes from amazing dance teachers. I started teaching & choreographing at age 15 and now I have accumulated over 16 years of experience in teaching, performing, dancing, competing, and choreography. I fell in love with Salsa Dancing in 2003 when I learned from Francisco Vasquez and Alex Da Silva and other salseros in Los Angeles. I have been addicted since! Salsa Dancing & Burlesque Dancing consume my life! I quit my 6 figure salary sales job in March of 2008 and took my 4-Person dance company to Bora Bora, French Polynesia on an all expense paid tour to kick off the birth of Ooh La La Dance Company the right way! We rocked it like the Rich & Famous! I am a world citizen & traveler starting my world travels at the age of 18 so I have accumulated a wealth of networks and contacts worldwide in exotic destinations. I travel the globe in high heels and have been fortunate enough to bring other cultures into my life. Traveling extensively through 35 countries, I dreamt of having a job that combined my two passions in life: Dance & Travel into one fabulous job. I received my Bachelors in International Business & minor in Spanish & Finance so I possess the know-how to manage, direct & grow a thriving business. To my dismay all my ideas have worked out and it was a leap of faith to quit my job and pursue dancing full time, but I haven’t looked back since. The number of countries will surpass 40 by the end of this year when I bring Ooh La La Dance Company on tour through Australia and Asia.
Ritmo Bello: Unlike other traditional salsa groups I noticed that you picked a very unique group name. Why did you choose Ooh La La for your name?
Ooh La La Dance Company:Ooh La La! This sassy phrase just rolls off your tongue and our dancing & style just makes people want to say Ooh La La so I just named my company, Ooh La La Dance Company! Ooh La La Dance Company uses a fusion of Salsa, Latin Ballroom, Burlesque, Lifts & Tricks, Samba, and Hip Hop to differentiate us in the marketplace. I try to think very outside the box and am unconventional with my Dance Company from the music I choose to the choreography I put together, to utilizing everybody’s talent to make a contribution to the dance productions we put on. We are Ooh La La. However, under La La there are 2 different dance entities: The Hot Tamales & Cosabellas. The Hot Tamales are the Men & Ladies Performance Salsa Dance Team. Cosabellas are my Burlesque-Salsa Ladies Performance Dance Teams. Ooh La La is growing in numbers so after our 1 Year Anniversary Showcase & Social, I am creating 2 new teams: The Hot Tamales Amateurs and Cosabellas Amateurs.
Ritmo Bello: What type of salsa dancing does your group perform? What types of influences have impacted how you dance salsa?
Ooh La La Dance Company: Ooh La La is definitely flashy with our lifts & Tricks that we incorporate into our salsa dancing. I like to come up with patterns that look big & pretty. I learned in LA where they hit on the downbeat 1 when they dance salsa so I love making a sharp statement when I dance. I also lived in Spain, Costa Rica & Brazil so I have studied and dance Samba, Flamanco & Salsa at these different countries so I always add these styles and flavor into our dancing. Also, I am a big fan of Burlesque Dancing. I love the Pussycat Dolls so I wanted to make sure I came up with the idea of fusing Salsa with Burlesque Dancing as an Ooh La La Trademark. Ooh La La also has more risque costumes than the tradicional salsa costumes. I love fashion & I want my dancers to always look HOT! I love using cutting-edge music for my choreography. I don’t always use salsa although I love all my salsa music. I like to switch it up and whatever has a great catchy beat, I mix the music & then I dance to interpret the music!
Ritmo Bello: Does Ooh La La Dance Company have a particular focus on teaching certain age groups to perform?
Ooh La La Dance Company: My main focus is to teach everybody. We tend to have a younger age Group. My youngest salsa dancers are 6 years old. My oldest salsa dancer might have been 87! The Hot Tamales range from ages 15-35. My Cosabellas Ladies team tend to be in the age Group of 30! Thirties are the new Twenties! Ha! Ha!
Ritmo Bello: Are you taking on new dancers now? How does someone audition to be a part of your salsa performance teams?
Ooh La La Dance Company: We are always accepting new dancers whether its for only 1 group lesson or if they want to join a dance team. There are no auditions. I can teach anybody. All it takes is patience, kindess and a little bit of love in what you do! I am creating 2 new Dance Teams at the end of April if anybody is interested, they may contact me, Susie at 805.252.6900 cell or visit my website atwww.OohLaLaDanceCompany.com. Both Hot Tamales team meet every Wednesdays from 7pm-10pm at the FIREHOUSE YMCA LA JOLLA at 7877 Herschel Avenue LA Jolla, CA 92037. Cosabellas Pro meet every Thursdays from 7-10pm. Hot Tamales Beginners will meet every Fridays from 8pm-9pm in addition to the Wednesday practice. Cosabellas Amateur will meet every Fridays from 9-10:30pm. Dues are $75 per month. If you are on the Cosabellas, you can join the Hot Tamales for free at no additional charge.
Ritmo Bello: I know that you mentioned earlier that you have personally have traveled all over the world for dancing salsa. Could you share with the Ritmo Bello audience some of the locales where Ooh La La Dance Company will perform?
Ooh La La Dance Company: Ooh La La Dance Company started off at the Exclusive Hotel Bora Bora in Bora Bora, French Polynesia. We are going to Turks & Caicos to perform in May 2008 for 10 days. We are confirmed & going to The Great Barrier Reefs to perform in October of 2009. Bali, Indonesia in October of 2009. Phuket, Thailand in November 2009. I am also negotiating to perform in Greece, Morocco and Montenegro for next summer 2010. Its going to be exciting & my dancers and I have become such great friends. I negotiate that all expenses are paid for so my dancers just have to go on a vacation for free. They get to be in 4 to 5 star Hotels, all meals, drinks & local activities are paid for when they go. It really is a one in a Lifetime experience. The bill when I left Bora Bora was $50,000 per Dancer after being there for a month & a half. The bill was all taken care of.with no questions asked! Ooh La La is really so lucky. It really pays off to have an strong awesome network of people around the world.
Ritmo Bello: I’ve noticed that there are a number of videos on YouTube showcasing your salsa dancing. How do you feel about being a virtual salsa celebrity for the YouTube crowd?
Ooh La La Dance Company: I wouldn’t categorize myself as a Celebrity. I just go for it. Competing, performing, teaching….all of these activities make you a better dancer. I’m still improving as a dancer and performer just like everybody else is. We are having alot of fun dancing & being together. It’s fabulous & glamourous being in the spotlight. Every dancer loves to be center stage. I’m humbled by nice and inspiring messages when people give me & my dancers compliments. It’s my motivation to keep dancing & do what I’m doing.
Ritmo Bello: Do you have contact information in case anyone from the Ritmo Bello audience wants to contact you?
Ooh La La Dance Company: Anybody can contact me directly at:
Ritmo Bello: Susie, Thank you so much for your time and I hope to attend some of your salsa performances in the near future.
Ooh La La Dance Company: Thank you so much John for this oppurtunity to sit down with you & share with you all of what Ooh La La Dance Company has to offer & share our story! We appreciate it!
Salsa music is always changing.For the trained ear the different styles and evolving types of salsa music immediately stand out.Indeed, over the years there have been numerous changes to the music we identify as salsa.
La Excelencia, a New York City based salsa orchestra, epitomizes the culmination of many of these changes that we’ve experienced with salsa music.Co-owned by Julián Silva and José Vazquez Cofresi, the vibrant and fresh salsa band is amassing a global fan base while staying true to their roots.I had the unique privilege of interviewing Julián and José recently on behalf of the whole band and learned quite a bit about these salsa music evolutions.
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Ritmo Bello:José and Julián, thanks for taking the time to address the Ritmo Bello dance community. Let’s begin. What would you say is the main focus of your salsa music company?
La Excelencia:Our main focus is to bring salsa to a wider audience and to have salsa music serve as a voice for our community. Part of our goal is to include social messages in our music and at the same time give our audience a whole new experience they thought they couldn’t get with salsa.
Ritmo Bello:What are the origins of your salsa band?
La Excelencia:We started La Excelencia in 2005, in the city of New York. Jose and I met back in 1995 and spent several years playing salsa in other bands. We moved to NYC in 2001 with the hopes of releasing a CD under a record label we had just signed with. Unfortunately (or fortunately) after a couple of years the deal went sour and we decided to leave the label. After that experience, we left very disillusioned with the way the music business is run and with the way salsa was being portrayed. From that, the idea of La Excelencia and Handle With Care Productions was born. We wanted to make great music, write great music and distribute great music all ourselves, and do it our way.
Ritmo Bello: Why did you choose La Excelencia for your band name?
La Excelencia:Well first of all we wanted to give the band a name that paid somewhat of a tribute to those bands in the 70’s we admired so much. (La Perfecta, La Solucion, La Fania, etc.) And secondly the name “La Excelencia” was chosen by me as a way of push us to live up to what the name claims, Excellence. When I first came to the band with the name they all got a little nervous, saying” well …we better not suck….” But I know that when we are on stage and we hear the MC announce our name, we have to give it all we have in order to live up to the name.
Ritmo Bello: I understand that La Excelencia is known as a “salsa dura“ band. For those unfamiliar with this term can you explain a little bit about what this means?
La Excelencia:Salsa Dura is a term used to describe our type of salsa; hard, rough and raw. The focus is on the music not the image. We raise social issues in our music and well as talk about thing that happen in everyday life, without the sugar coating. What you hear and see is what you get.
Ritmo Bello: What types of influences have impacted how you’ve created your salsa music?
La Excelencia:Well if we are talking about musical influences, the list is endless. I will say that the music that influences us is not just salsa music, but all types of music. There are a lot of great bands out there with something meaningful to say, and we hope that people not only dance to our music but also listen to our music.
Ritmo Bello:I’ve heard people say that salsa music is primarily music from the 70’s and 80’s with no real new innovation. Do you believe this is true? Is salsa a dying form of music in terms of genre?
La Excelencia:Well for a long time salsa music of the 70’s has been considered the only true salsa. But I believe that it’s for one reason …. And that’s because it gave us Latinos/ Latino Americanos a voice. There have been attempts to rejuvenate salsa or like you stated revive salsa, but in my opinion all the industry has done is kill the essence of true salsa. They have made salsa about image and not about the music. Salsa was our rebel music and in the past 2 to 3 decades is has become meaningless noise. Fortunately, despite all of that, salsa is alive and well. The longevity of salsa is not due to the commercialization and popularity of cookie cutter salsa but completely due to the underground scene that has never bought into the mainstream. With the support of dancers and fans alike, that don’t care about money and only care about great music, salsa will never die.
Ritmo Bello:How and where do you find inspiration for creating new salsa songs?
La Excelencia:Our inspiration comes from our experiences. I for one never sit down and say “today I’m going to write a song”. Songs come to me with stories I hear, with things I see or read about. It pretty much my thoughts put to clave. We refuse to put covers songs on our CDs for the sole fact that we want to express our thoughts…not someone else’s. There are a lot of bands that have found success on other people’s words and/or music and claim that it’s a tribute to the artist. We believe there is no better tribute to our predecessors than to keep writing NEW salsa, so that we can keep salsa moving forward.
Ritmo Bello: Where has La Excelencia performed?
La Excelencia:We have been lucky enough to have performed in numerous venues in the United States and Europe. This includes New Orleans Jazz Fest (Louisiana), Lincoln Center (New York), Copacabana (NY), Latin Quarter (NY), Sobs (NY), Afro-Latino Festival (Bree, Belgium),
Norwegian Salsa Congress (Oslo, Norway) New York Salsa Congress (NY), Connecticut Salsa Fest (Hartford), Austin Salsa Festival (Texas), Moomba Club (Montreal, Canada), just to name a few. We also have a couple of upcoming tours to promote our new CD that you can check out on our website,www.laexcelencia.net. Some of the dates include: Amsterdam, Luxembourg, Bree, Brussels, Leeds, London, Brighton, Morocco, and Cyrus.
Ritmo Bello: Can you tell me a little about your CD’s that you’ve released to date?
La Excelencia:We released our first CD entitled “Salsa Con Conciencia” back in 2006. It received great reviews nationally and internationally and sold over 9000 units without major distribution. It was also the winner of the Vox Populi award for Album of the Year by the Independent Music Awards. Many of the songs from that album hit the top 20 chart in the US and Europe and we included in over 20 different Latin music compilation CDs including one sponsored by UNICEF. Also, the hit single “La Lucha” was the featured song in the independent film “The Big Shot Caller”.
Our second CD is entitled “Mi Tumbao Social” and it was released in January of this year. So far it is being considered by many to be one of the best CD’s to come out in the past decade. As with the first CD, it is an independent production that we have put together to showcase our raw sound, and once again write about social issues we face in the world today.
Ritmo Bello: Are there current plans for new CD releases coming up soon?
La Excelencia:Even though “Mi Tumbao Social” was released less than 3 months ago, we are already thinking about and starting to write the next album. We are constantly being inspired by the world around us and thanks to all the positive feedback we get from our fans, we are eager to share to give them what they want … More salsa!!! But one thing that we take very serious is the quality of the music we put out. A lot of thought goes into what songs actually make it onto the CD. We want to make sure that our fans get the best of us.
Ritmo Bello: I’ve noticed that there are a number of videos on YouTube showcasing your salsa music. How has YouTube and other types of social media helped you gain more exposure worldwide?
La Excelencia:It’s been great, as an Independent artist we wouldn’t be able to compete without these media outlets. We have been able to reach people from all over the world.
Ritmo Bello: Does La Excelencia have any plans to travel to the West Coast soon, including San Diego?
La Excelencia:We are actually extremely excited that it’s looking very promising for us to hit the west coast this summer, including San Diego. We don’t have anything confirmed 100%.
Ritmo Bello:Do you have contact information in case anyone from the Ritmo Bello audience wants to contact you?
La Excelencia:Of course, please feel free to contact Jose Vazquez-Cofresi or Julian Silva atinfo@laexcelencia.net or at 646-241-5501. You can also check us out on the web atwww.laexcelencia.net, there you can find links to our MySpace, Facebook, and YouTube. You can purchase our CD’s atwww.cdbaby.com or atwww.descarga.com.
Ritmo Bello: José and Julián, thank you so much for your time and I hope to attend some of your salsa performances in the near future.
La Excelencia:John we want to thank you for allowing us the opportunity to share our salsa with the salsa community on the west coast.
You can always tell when someone is passionate about what they do.Whether it is their job or simply a fun pastime, it’s clear that this passion drives them to do amazing things.
Giancarlo Gabellini is a great example of this type of passion.As the owner and creator of Gabellini Dance Shoes, Giancarlo has become well known within the salsa dance world for his innovative salsa dance shoe designs.Indeed, Giancarlo’s passion for social salsa dancing has allowed him to dance, travel, and grow his business in a way that sets him apart from other salsa shoe designers.I had the unique privilege to interview Giancarlo recently and learn more about salsa dancing from a shoe designer’s point of view.I hope you enjoy the interview!
Ritmo Bello:Giancarlo, thanks for taking time out of your schedule to address the Ritmo Bello audience. Salsa dancers here inSan Diegowould love to know what makes your dance shoes great for dancers. What makes Gabellini Dance Shoes a good option for them to consider?
Gabellini Dance Shoes:Gabellini Dance Shoes was created because of my introduction to salsa. While it goes without saying quality and comfort are essential our shoes reflect the lifestyle and the fashion sense of the salsa community.
Gabellini Dance Shoes:The idea came out of necessity. After taking dance classes for about 6 months I committed to buying dance shoes. When I shopped around I was absolutely shocked by the available styles, most of which looked like something from 1970′s. I could see that there was a definite need for a stylish dance shoe.Putting the concept of a fashion forward dance shoe in motion was second nature because I have a background in production from my years in the garment industry.
Ritmo Bello: How has your experience in the garment industry influenced the design of your dance shoes?
Gabellini Dance Shoes:Working in the garment industry involves studying fashion trends and using quality manufacturing techniques, both of which are essential to putting out top notch dance shoes. As far as styling goes you look at what dancers are wearing as street shoes and then incorporate those features into beautiful dance shoe.Salsa has the best social dancers around and we deserve styles that reflect our lifestyle.
Ritmo Bello:Your website describes the best dance shoe soles as those made of suede. Can you explain why you make that recommendation? Are there any advantages to these types of soles versus other types?
Gabellini Dance Shoes:I always do my home work, the best way to test dance shoes is to wear them. I wore different types of dance shoes, from rubber sole dance shoes thatrestrict your movement toa jazz slipper that offers neither comfort nor support. My best advice came from experienced performers and the consensus was that a suede sole is the perfect balance of friction and maneuverability.I added a small rubber portion at the back of the sole for that extra stopping traction when you need it.
Ritmo Bello: I know you that you offer five unique styles of dance shoes. Can you describe what makes each one different and unique?
Gabellini Dance Shoes:Unlike traditional dance shoes that focus your entire weight on the heel and ball of the foot our styles have a new design concept. All of our shoes have a wedge shaped sole that distributes the weight of the foot over the whole surface of the sole.We incorporate and build in arch support with metal shanks and reinforced sides. We always use 100% leather outer and lining to hold the form of the shoe.
Besides the distinct style options, there are some differences in flexibility.The Fly is the lightest and most flexible shoe because it is 3/4 lined in leather.The Classic has a leather outer and is fully lined in leather but it will soften up like a dance slipper and you’ll be able to reverse point.The Lead and Sancho are structured shoes that offer full support and will hold their form.All of our shoes are lighter than the average dance shoes because we use a patented material we use for our soles.
Ritmo Bello: You create shoes that are available for men and women?
Gabellini Dance Shoes:Yes, the Fly and Classic styles are available in women sizes. Our busiest day for women dance shoes is always Sunday afternoon, the ladies coming looking for comfort after a long weekend of workshops and all night dancing.
Ritmo Bello:Lots of dancers first learn about your products through the salsa congresses you attend each year. Is it true that you attend 40 plus salsa congresses a year?
Gabellini Dance Shoes:We are now very popular with Swing and Ballroom dancers so we are doubling the amount of events we attend every year. With every business I’ve owned I consider direct contact with my customer crucial for success, there is no better way to get feedback about your product.Salsa Congresses provide what I call “grass roots marketing” and allows Gabellini Shoes to be part of the dance community and also helps support the events.
Ritmo Bello: What’s the best thing about attending these salsa congresses?
Gabellini Dance Shoes:Over the past years I’ve made friends with so many social dancers, instructors and performers. It’s always fun joining up at the events and exchanging stories about our salsa travels.I sharea character trait that I think all dancers have, we arevery social people with a certain “joie de virvre”. No matter where I travel in the world there’s an instant connection with fellow salsa dancers, it like running into an old friend.
Ritmo Bello: I assume, then, that you will be at the San Diego Salsa Festival this year in September?
Gabellini Dance Shoes:Angel and Tulane are fantastic hosts and I had great time at the last 2 events so I’ll definitely be back. On a side note, now when people ask me the question” If you could live anywhere?” my first pick is San Diego.I’m not sure how many shoes I have to sell for that beach front property!
Ritmo Bello: For those interested in purchasing your shoes online, how do you know which size will be the best fit?
Gabellini Dance Shoes:I do have a size chart online that’s very accurate but I always encourage dancers to ask me questions if there any doubt about sizing.
Ritmo Bello: What’s your return/exchange policy like?
Gabellini Dance Shoes:I know you have to make a leap of faith when buying shoes online, I offer free return shipping for exchanges and refunds and an absolute 100% customer satisfaction guarantee. I’m old school when it comes to customer service.The customer is always right.
Ritmo Bello: I understand that you ship everywhere all over the world, is that right?
Gabellini Dance Shoes:We have customers all over the world, To give overseas customer the same return shipping advantage we opened a warehouse in the UK this year. We will open a distribution center in Rome and Germany by the end of the 2009.
Ritmo Bello:Can you tell me a little about your “wholesale” program and who can participate in that program?
Gabellini Dance Shoes:We want to put Gabellini dance shoes on anyone who loves to dance so we have many options available. Along with our very successful distribution program for dance schools we also offer dance troupes volume discounts.
Ritmo Bello: What is the most interesting story you have from your travels and business of Gabellini Dance Shoes?
Gabellini Dance Shoes:One event in particular always brings a smile to my face. At my first salsa congress as a vendor, way before I knew anyone in the business, I was at my booth when a guy comes up and asks if I knew where the room for the advanced salsa workshop was. I pointed him in the right direction and warned him “Not to feel bad if it was above his head, I had heard the class was pretty challenging”, he went on to the class. Later someone told me his name was Tito, as in “Tito and Tamara” I guess he was amused too since he’s become one of my regular customers.
Ritmo Bello: Anything else you’d like to share withSan Diegodance community?
Gabellini Dance Shoes:Make sure you take advantage of our draw for a free pair of dance shoes that we give away each month. We’re also excited about our new woman’s formal shoe line coming our by the end of the year, so stay tuned.
Ritmo Bello:How can the Ritmo Bello audience reach you if they want to find out more information about Gabellini Dance Shoes?
Gabellini Dance Shoes:The best way to contact me is via email.I always answer questions and usually within 24hrs. gabellini.net@gmail.com You can also visit me at my website, Gabellini Dance Shoes.
Ritmo Bello: Giancarlo, on behalf of the Ritmo Bello andSan Diegodance community thanks so much for your time.
Gabellini Dance Shoes:Always a pleasure, I’ll see everyone again on my next trip to the West Coastevents. Come by and say hello!
If you’ve ever been to Belly Up Tavern in North County San Diego you’ve probably met one of San Diego’s best female dance instructors, Jemadean Dobrosielski . Along with her dance company, Salsa Pasion, she has been a stong force in bringing quality salsa dancing to not just the North County but to all of San Diego. I recently had an opportunity to sit down with Jemadean to talk about her salsa dance experience and the impact she has had in San Diego.
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Ritmo Bello: Jemadean, let’s begin. Lot’s of people in the San Diego salsa scene know you from your work at Belly Up Tavern and rave about your dancing. What do you and your dance company, Salsa Pasion, offer to the San Diego dance community that sets you apart from other groups?
Jemadean Dobrosielski: Hi John, and thanks for the opportunity to speak to you and the Ritmo Bello audience. Salsa Pasion focuses on teaching people how to social dance with confidence and passion, with an emphasis on connection with your partner. Unlike most San Diego dance companies, performance is not my focus, though I do perform and train people in performance from time to time. What I do focus on is giving people the tools and technique they need to get on the floor withanyoneand feel confident in what they are doing. My goal is get them to a place where they can dance and connect with their partner, enjoy their partner, and express what they hear in the music, andwho they are, through their dance.
Ritmo Bello: Everyone has a story about how they started salsa dancing. What prompted your entry into dancing salsa?
Jemadean Dobrosielski: My first class was with Tony Caligagan in my senior year at UCSD, which got me going to the clubs initially, but I ended up returning to what I was previously doing, which was Swing dancing. At my swing dance partner’s company Christmas party, I met the Alvarez brothers, who reminded me how much I enjoyed Salsa. I ended up back at the Salsa clubs, and have loved Salsa ever since!
Ritmo Bello: Why did you pick Salsa Pasion as the name of your dance company? Is there a story behind that too?
Jemadean Dobrosielski: I am really passionate about expressing who you are, not only for myself, but for everyone, and dance is such a great medium for expression. Great dance pretty much requires one to be willing to put themselves out there, and when people have the courage to take that chance, it is a beautiful and liberating thing. I love to encourage people to dance with passion and live with passion, and so when I was choosing the name, Salsa Pasion seemed just perfect for me.
Ritmo Bello: I understand that you are a former member of Salsa Y Fuego. Can you describe what that experience was like and how it impacted the way you dance salsa today?
Jemadean Dobrosielski: It was a great experience in almost every way. The group we had together, especially for the 2001 Salsa Congress, was really a great team, and a supportive team. Our director, Stephan Gallardo, was particular about technique, and doing things over and over until they were right, which fit me perfectly. I am detail oriented, have always known the value of good technique, and realize that perfection takes time, hard work, and discipline, and I don’t mind that at all. Salsa Y Fuego was the first company to dance On 2, and On 2 is still my personal preference today. My dance background, experience with Salsa Y Fuego, and everything I have learned since I left Salsa Y Fuego have shaped the dancer I am today.
Ritmo Bello:How would you describe the way you dance and teach salsa? What approach do you take with your students to help them learn salsa effectively?
Jemadean Dobrosielski: Wow, that’s a big question. I’ll try to be concise, yet clear….I dance and teach others to dancelight. Remember that the overall goal is dancing with confidence, passion, and connection. To do this, you need to create space and time to actually listen to the music, express what you hear in the music, and enjoy your partner. When you dance heavy, there is a lot of time and space required just to get through the pattern, which then makes the dance more chaotic because you always feel like you are in a hurry, which leaves little time to enjoy your partner. Once you learn how to dance light with good technique, it actually seems like the music has slowed down, even though the music has not changed at all. Regarding the 2ndquestion: The first thing I do is assess what their goals are—everyone has different reasons why they want to learn to dance. Their goal tells me if I need to just give them what they need to get out there and move a little bit, or if I need to make sure they are aware of all the little details that make the difference between a good dancer and a great dancer. Once I understand their goal, I build them a foundational structure that they understand and can build upon in the future—this really helps to demystify Salsa for them, and soon they may find themselves looking like the dancers they were so inspired by. And lastly, I’d like to add that as we go along in lessons, it becomes very apparent to me what strengths my student has, and the areas where they can improve—everyone’s strengths and weaknesses are different–so my feedback for them is as personalized as possible.
Ritmo Bello: At the outset of this interview I mentioned your work at Belly Up Tavern. Why is Belly Up Tavern a good place to dance salsa? What makes it different from other salsa dance venues in San Diego?
Jemadean Dobrosielski: I love Belly Up!!! The energy at Belly Up is always good! Everyone is nice—there is really no ego or attitude. Everyone is just there to dance and have a good time. There are very few dance performances, if any at all, as we are all there to get our Salsa fix! Why watch dance when you could be dancing yourself! The floor is great, and the sound is the best in town– the Belly Up is a concert venue with professional sound staff. Plus you get a great LIVE BAND: Orquesta Primo, which I love. I love to just watch them do their thing if I’m taking a dance break. The Belly Up also has a restaurant right next door for food, a full bar, and lots of seating. I do the lesson, which can be quite large, but the layout makes it easy to see, and the great sound makes sure you can also hear everything I’m saying.
Ritmo Bello:Focusing back on yourself, I’ve heard many women comment that they enjoy learning salsa dance from a woman like yourself. What do you do to specially cater to the needs of women dancers new to salsa?
Jemadean Dobrosielski: Again, good foundations from the beginning. Leads and follows have different jobs in the dance, and each one needs to learn what their job is to be a good dance partner, so I start by letting them know what their job is. In addition, depending on what skills each woman already has, or does not have, when she comes to me, she may need to learn how to move gracefully, and carry herself with a particular attitude. There are certain foundations that are important to have before adding things like arm styling, otherwise she may have a hard time achieving the look she desires, and so I give her my recommendation on the order in which she should proceed.
Ritmo Bello: Is there anything else that you’d like to share with the Ritmo Bello dance audience about yourself?
Jemadean Dobrosielski: I love what I do, and I love helping people get to their goals in the most efficient and effective way possible, so if that is what you are looking for, I look forward to meeting you!
Ritmo Bello:How can the Ritmo Bello audience reach you if they want to find out more information about Salsa Pasion?
Jemadean Dobrosielski:My website iswww.SalsaPasionDance.com, or you can reach me by phone at (619) 318-9272.
Ritmo Bello: Jemadean, thanks for taking time out of your busy schedule to let the Ritmo Bello audience learn more about you.
Jemadean Dobrosielski: Thank you John, for the invitiation!
