Blog Post 3: Preserving Cuban Music and Culture: A Collaborative Journey at Camp

In the world of music, some rhythms are more than just beats—they carry the weight of history, culture, and identity. This is especially true for the vibrant and rich sounds of Cuban music. At Dr. Robert Clyne’s Santa Clara, Cuba Now! summer camp, 2024 brought a unique opportunity for teens to not just listen to these sounds, but to help preserve them for future generations. Through the Music Preservation Project, led by Grammy Award-winning producer Rubén López Arista, campers learned to record, produce, and share the authentic soul of Cuban music.

This was a project that went far beyond the studio. It was about diving into the essence of Cuba’s musical legacy, learning hands-on with world-class Cuban musicians, and contributing to the preservation of this vibrant culture. Teens weren’t just observers—they became part of a collaborative effort to ensure the future of Cuban music stays as alive as its past.

Hands-on Experience: From Studio to Stage

For the students, the experience was a deep dive into the world of music production. Under Ariel Pérez’s guidance, they learned the intricacies of Cuban instruments and how to capture the soul of traditional music in a studio setting. From producing to recording and mixing, the teens experienced all stages of music creation. Some standout participants even mastered the art of montuno on the piano, a complex technique unique to Cuban music.

But the learning didn’t stop there. They weren’t just in the studio—they were in the community. Collaborating with Cuban musicians and technicians provided a unique opportunity to support and learn from the culture they were helping preserve. And it’s this cross-cultural collaboration that makes the project so special. Students didn’t just gain knowledge about music—they were actively involved in keeping Cuban traditions alive.

The Fun Side: Performing with Live Bands

To make the experience even more rewarding, the campers who showed great progress with their instrument practice were given a special opportunity: performing live with Cuban bands during dinner time at local restaurants! Teens who had mastered rhythm with maracas, bongos, and claves joined the talented musicians to play for the diners. It was a thrilling moment for the campers, who were not only immersed in Cuban music but were actively contributing to it in front of an audience. For some, it was a chance to shine in the spotlight, while for others, it was a moment of camaraderie as they jammed alongside local musicians.

“It felt amazing to be playing with the band,” said Victor, one of the campers. “The energy from the crowd, the rhythm of the music—it was like something clicked. I never thought I’d be able to do something like that in such a short time.”

A Global Experience with Local Impact

The project wasn’t only about music—it was about community. The students had a chance to support a local initiative that directly benefited the preservation of Cuban musical culture. Whether they were recording classic songs like “El Guarapo y la Melcocha”, “Cuaquiera Resbala y Cae”, or “Chan Chan”, the experience was much more than a fun activity; it was a way to make a real impact.

This collaboration is a perfect example of the transferable skills Dr. Clyne’s camp offers. Teens learned teamwork, adaptability, and problem-solving while navigating a professional, multicultural environment. The skills they gained—from music production to cultural understanding—are applicable not just in the music world but in any career or community project they choose to pursue, anywhere in the world.

A Lasting Legacy: Music, Culture, and the Future

The Music Preservation Project didn’t just end with the final mix or recording. It’s a legacy—one that students can carry with them long after the camp ends. It’s a reminder that preserving culture isn’t just about the past; it’s about making sure future generations can continue to learn from and build on it. And in a rapidly changing world, this kind of cultural awareness and hands-on experience is something every teen can take with them into their future.

The camp participants will return home with not only new technical skills and a deeper understanding of Cuban music but also a broader perspective on the world and the importance of cultural preservation. They’ve contributed to something much bigger than themselves, and that sense of purpose and responsibility will stay with them for years to come.