Join us as we explore Latin rhythms, melodies and improvisation so we can connect it with many styles of music around the world. Nicolas Carter (harp), Michael G. Ronstadt (cello/guitar), and Ralph Gordon (bass/cello) will highlight cross-cultural connections between musical styles and rhythmic meters, melody, bass lines, and improvisation. We’ll delight in the similarities and differences that make each regional music style so fascinating and joyful. Michael G. Ronstadt will help everyone in the class explore some of the music he grew up with in Tucson, including Mariachi guitar and bass lines found in Huapango, Son, Waltzes and Rancheras. We’ll relate them to the 6/8 meters in Celtic music and explore how instruments can fit into these styles so you can make it your own. Nicolas Carter will also be offering his deep wealth of knowledge in Paraguayan Polca (6/8 combined with 3/4) Argentinian Malambo, Colombian Cumbia, Andean Huayno and other Latin American classics upon request. Rounding it all out is chameleon bass and cello player, Ralph Gordon, who has played countless styles of music in the last 50 years. He is a master at incorporating bass lines, melody, rhythm, and connecting the dots between genres.

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