The transformative effects of music and dance in Cuba La Gozadera:

Latin America and Caribbean Forum
San Antonio, Texas
July 16, 2016
La Gozadera:
The transformative effects of music
and dance in Cuba
Dr. Mark Marotto
Lone Star College-Montgomery
Music and dance help us to be
in the moment
“Live in the
moment… it
doesn’t have to
be perfect, take
the risk. Be
aware of how
much you can do
with everyone’s
talents.”
-Brenda
The Cuban “rumba” is a
spontaneous style of music and
dance synonymous with “party”
Music and dance are inclusive and
participative
“I didn’t feel like I was going on a trip
to be shown or served something; I
was going to be a part of something.”
-Jesse
La Castellana uses music and
dance to treat severe autism and
other disorders
Music and dance build bridges
“Cuba helped ground
myself, to realize that it
wasn’t about how different
Cuba was, but how
similar Cuba was.”
-Mark
The National Choir of Cuba is
world renown
Music and dance give us access to joy
“My father said, ‘I’ve
never seen you sing
with such a
smile. Share that
smile.’”
-Laura
We found joy in
Havana…
…and we will continue to
share that joy in and around
Houston.