University Band Celebrates Hispanic and Latin American Cultures and Supports Local Food Pantry

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As you step into Kresge Auditorium, the vibrant sounds of instruments fill the air—brass notes shimmer alongside the warm resonance of strings, while woodwinds weave intricate melodies. This is the University Band, diligently rehearsing for their upcoming concert, "A Celebration of Hispanic and Latin American Music," which will spotlight composers from Mexico, Peru, Argentina, Spain and the United States while supporting the Putnam County Emergency Food Pantry. The concert is scheduled for Sunday, October 27, 2024, at 3:00 PM in Kresge Auditorium.

Craig Paré, D.M.A., Professor of Music and Director of University Bands, shared: "We are always encouraged as faculty members, especially in the arts, to find ways to collaborate with music, poetry and dance—everything we can. " Over the summer, I thought about our planned concert for October, which recognizes Hispanic culture. I know a good deal of music from Hispanic and Latin American composers, so I wanted to put together a concert that not only features their music but also incorporates various forms of art."

The concert will feature performances by the University Band and the String Orchestra, with guest contributions from Prof. Soledad Forcadell, Associate Professor of Hispanic Studies, and Prof. Angela Casteñeda, the Lester Martin Jones Professor of Sociology and Coordinator of Latin American & Caribbean Studies. "They’ll be contributing poems and sharing knowledge about the danzón, a dance style integral to the concert," Pare explained. "We want to ensure the program notes are accessible, so they will be available in both Spanish and English."

In addition to highlighting the rich cultural tapestry of Hispanic and Latin American music, the concert serves a greater purpose: a food drive for the Putnam County Emergency Food Pantry. Audience members are encouraged to bring canned and non-perishable food items to support local families in need. "We’ve always tried to use our concerts as a platform to give back to the community," Pare stated. "This year, we aim to fill our donation table in the Great Hall of the Green Center for the Performing Arts with contributions that will go directly to the food pantry. In fact, all DePauw students, staff and faculty are encouraged to donate throughout the week."

Paré's personal connection to the community informed this initiative. "I’ve lived in Greencastle for over 30 years and have seen families struggle to make ends meet," he shared. "I know families that struggle from week to week to ensure their children are fed. Supporting the food pantry is crucial—not just for me, but for DePauw as an institution."

The concert will feature a diverse array of music that reflects various Latin American and Hispanic rhythms. "Each piece will provide a unique experience," Paré said. "Music from Peru sounds different from music from Mexico or Spain. We want our audience to leave feeling like they’ve truly experienced a taste of what music is like outside of the United States."

Ultimately, the concert aims to foster appreciation for cultural diversity through music while reinforcing DePauw’s commitment to community outreach. "We want attendees to recognize that the university band and music students here are first-rate musicians who work hard to make good music," Paré emphasized. 

More information about the concert and how to contribute to the food drive can be found here.