It is my pleasure to introduce to you El Musico Project, a new presentation of the works of Jose
Alfredo Jimenez. Today in the United States, Hispanic and Anglo-American populations live side by side, though quite often invisible to one another. We are interlocked in each others culture and economy, and yet we rarely engage in dialogue with one another. El Musico Project aims to jump-start these vital conversations through the adapted works of Jose Alfredo Jimenez.
Over the period of 2009-2010 I collaborated with Foghorn Stringband member Caleb Klauder as well as Kevin Healy, Jesse Emerson and Paul Brainard to create a CD covering Jose Alfredo's work in Spanish and English translations. The ranchera style of Jose Alfredo's nostalgic music has much in common with the pining melodies of U.S. country and folk traditions, and I wanted to express these similarities for both Spanish and English-speaking audiences.
I intend to spread the message of El Musico Project via paper, journal and radio. This fall I will be offering shows in libraries and other venues to educate the public about the enduring work of Jose Alfredo. If you are interested in a visit, please shoot me an e-mail at elmusicoproject@gmail.com.
Take a moment to look at the music videos below, sample the digital downloads and check out my site in-development at elmusico.luketan.com. One-third of sales go to supporting No Mas Muertes, an organization working to assist migrants and prevent death along the Mexico/U.S. Border.
Thank you for being a part of my efforts to celebrate our diverse American heritage!
El Jinete
