Los Utrera will introduce the Mexican musical traditions of Son Jarocho

Thanks to Arts Midwest World Fest, Hutchinson has rocked to the French beat of Mauvais Sort and has been mesmerized by the throat singing of Inner Mongolian group An Da Union.

Next week, it’s another spin of the globe for a south-of-the-border experience as Mexican musical group, Los Utrera, presents the vibrant sound of Son Jarocho to local audiences.

Son Jarocho is the name of the traditional music native to the Mexican state of Southern Veracruz. It features a fusion of Spanish, African and indigenous musical elements, reflecting the population that evolved in the region from Spanish colonial times.

Joining this festive experience will be dancers performing the Zapteado. This dance is of Spanish origin and characterized by a lively rhythm punctuated by the striking of the dancer’s shoes on a wooden surface.
Los Utrera has toured throughout Mexico, the Caribbean and South America.

The group will perform a public concert at 7 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 11, at the Hutchinson High School Auditorium, 1200 Roberts Road. Admission is $3 per person.

To read more, see the print edition of the Hutchinson Leader, Thursday, Oct. 4, 2008.

(Kay Johnson is a staff writer at the Hutchinson Leader. She can be reached at johnson@hutchinsonleader.com).