THE SWEET AND BRAVE SOUNDS OF SON JAROCHO MUSIC

On the crisp evening of Friday, October 20^th, I had the pleasure of experiencing the beautiful sounds of Son Jarocho music, a regional folk musical style hailing from Veracruz, Mexico.

Thanks to the talented ensemble known as Caña Dulce y Caña who took the stage at Buffalo’s historic Kleinhan’s Music Hall, the night was nothing short of magical, as this group transported us to a place of tradition, authenticity, and rich, captivating sounds.

Kleinhan’s Music Hall itself set the perfect stage for this unique performance, with its ornate architecture and superb acoustics. As the audience settled into their seats, the anticipation in the air was palpable. The stage was adorned with an array of traditional instruments, creating an inviting atmosphere that promised a deep dive into the heart of Son Jarocho.

Caña Dulce y Caña Brava, a group with deep roots in the genre, is made up of talented musicians who are not only masters of their instruments but also passionate ambassadors of the Son Jarocho tradition. Interestingly, Son Jarocho music is a genre typically dominated by male performers, however as the women took the stage, the commitment to preserving and sharing this rich musical heritage was evident from the moment they began playing.

The performance began with Violeta Romero, a spirited zapateado, the rhythmic footwork characteristic of Son Jarocho, setting the stage for an evening of foot-tapping music. The zapateado, a dance performed on a wooden platform called a “tarima,” brought a strong percussive element to the performance, which blended seamlessly with the melodies.

The instruments used by Caña Dulce y Caña Brava were a sight and sound to behold. The traditional “jarana” and “requinto” guitars, along with the “arpa jarocha” (a large, resonant harp) were played with precision and enthusiasm, showcasing the virtuosity of the group members. The melodies created by the harp, masterfully played by band leader and co-founder Adriana Cao Romero Alcalá, resonated through the hall, evoking feelings of nostalgia and joy.

The vocal performances were equally impressive, as the group’s singers told stories through their soulful and harmonious voices. The lyrics of their songs often touch on themes of love, nature, and the daily life of the Veracruz region, making the music feel deeply rooted in tradition and culture.

One of the standout moments of the evening was the fandango, a communal celebration that invites audience participation. The infectious energy of the fandango had the entire crowd clapping, dancing, and even trying their hand (or feet) at the zapateado. This interactivity made for a memorable and immersive experience that bridged the gap between the performers and the audience.

 As the night drew to a close, Caña Dulce y Caña Brava received a well-deserved standing ovation. The audience was left with a newfound appreciation for Son Jarocho and a yearning to explore the rich cultural heritage of Veracruz, Mexico. The performance was not just a musical journey but a cultural exchange that left a lasting impression on everyone in attendance. After having the opportunity to take a few pictures with the band, as my mother and I walked through the hall I couldn’t help but appreciate what Caña Dulce y Caña Brava were doing, keeping the traditions of Son Jarocho alive through their music and touring. It made me think of the traditional Trios and Jibaro music I grew up listening to as a child visiting my Abuela in the Lakeview projects as a child. The sounds of Nito Mendez and Los Tres Reyes are a huge part of the soundtrack of my youth, and in this day and age where music has become almost disposable, I hope and wish music artists, particularly those of Puerto Rican descent, carry on those traditional sounds through future generations

 In the heart of Buffalo’s West Side, Caña Dulce y Caña Brava introduced the city to the magic of Son Jarocho, and the experience will undoubtedly resonate in the hearts and minds of those lucky enough to be in the audience that night.

This enchanting blend of tradition and authenticity, brought to life through the captivating sounds of traditional instruments, showcased the power of music to transcend borders and connect people across cultures.  It was a true celebration of the beauty and universality of music. Until next time.