Slideshow: Totó la Momposina
Totó la Momposina is a highly respected singer and dancer from Colombia. Her work draws on the music and dance of the Colombian Caribbean, informed and inspired by a rich cultural mix that combines elements from African, American Indian, and Spanish traditions.
Kelly Davidson
Colombian student and vocalist Lizje Sarria performs a José Barros composition titled “La Piragua.”
Kelly Davidson
Student musical coordinator Esther Rojas switched between playing acoustic bass and electric bass and conducting throughout the concert.
Kelly Davidson
Mexican student and vocalist Joaquina Mertz performs “Oye Manita,” written by Totó la Momposina.
Kelly Davidson
Keyboardist Zahili Gonzalez, a Berklee student from Cuba, performs as part of the concert’s rhythm section.
Kelly Davidson
Vocalist Maria Alejandra Jimenéz, a Berklee student from Colombia, performs on stage. The concert displayed the traditions and styles of Colombia both through music and wardrobe.
Kelly Davidson
Singer-songwriter Mónica Giraldo ‘02 was featured during Totó la Momposina’s set. Also holding a diploma in architecture, Giraldo is involved in various music and architectural projects in Colombia in which she combines traditional and local views on design with international methods and ideas.
Kelly Davidson
Totó la Momposina receives an award from the Massachusetts House of Representatives recognizing her representation of Colombian culture through music and arts.
Kelly Davidson
As part of Berklee's Signature Series, the Berklee Performance Center welcomed singer and visiting artist Totó la Momposina on November 5 for a special performance celebrating the music and traditions of Colombia. Backed by a student orchestra with horns and a rhythm section using traditional percussion, the first half of the performance featured student vocalists and arrangers, while the second half centered on a commanding performance by Totó la Momposina herself, featuring dancers from the Colombian Youth Folklore Ballet Bajucol. The band for the sensational performance included vocalist and Berklee alumna Mónica Giraldo ‘02, percussionist Marco Vinicio Oyaga, and bassist and student musical coordinator Esther Rojas.
Watch an excerpt from the concert: