Ortiz brings authentic rhythmic vitality to this Cuban classic without overwhelming singers who may be encountering Latin repertoire for the first time. The arrangement balances accessibility with genuine musical character, letting the folk melody breathe while the jazz harmonies and Latin groove create genuine ensemble engagement. You'll find your singers naturally connecting to the infectious pulse rather than fighting against it.
What to expect
Warm, rhythmically infectious, and full of the kind of joy that comes from Cuban dance traditions. The melody carries an effortless charm while the harmonic foundation grounds singers in genuinely interesting chord movement. You'll feel the ensemble lighten as they settle into the groove.
Who it's for
Choirs with developing rhythmic confidence who are ready to explore Latin and jazz idioms. This arrangement works equally well for high school groups, community choirs, and collegiate ensembles seeking accessible but musically substantial repertoire.
How to get the most out of it
Establish the clave rhythm in early rehearsals, even if singers aren't explicitly playing it. Tap it during warm-ups so the entire ensemble internalizes this foundational pattern.
Layer the voices gradually. Begin with melody and bass foundation, then add inner voices once the top and bottom lines sit firmly in the ensemble's ears.
Honor the swing feel in rhythmic passages. This isn't metered folk music performed with classical precision; the Latin groove requires flexibility and conversational phrasing.
Consider the recorded accompaniment as a collaboration partner, not a backing track. Allow singers to respond to its energy and adjust phrasing organically.
How to use it
Position this as a standalone moment in a concert program where you want to shift the energy, or pair it alongside other Latin or jazz influenced works for a thematic set. The 22 pages and moderate length make it ideal for spring programming when you're balancing larger works with pieces that bring immediate pleasure to both singers and audiences.
Skills your students will build
Latin rhythmic foundation and clave pattern awareness
Jazz harmony and chord extension reading
Swing feel and rhythmic flexibility in ensemble context
Stylistic articulation and phrasing across languages
Layered voice independence while maintaining harmonic cohesion
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