Tropicalia, mariachi and salsa all represent distinct musical forms, each with its own unique set of cultural and historical influences. However, when viewed through the lens of modernist-cosmopolitan musical traditions, these seemingly disparate genres can be understood as part of a larger collective movement that is characterized by openness to international exchange and dialogue. By exploring the connections between these three genres, it is possible to gain insight into how the modernist-cosmopolitan conception of music has shaped contemporary global culture.
How might tropicalia, mariachi and salsa be collectively understood in relation to the theoretical concept of modernist-cosmopolitan musical traditions?
Tropicalia emerged from Brazil in the 1960s as a reaction against Eurocentric models of music and art. Tropicalia was heavily influenced by African rhythms and featured elements from Afro-Brazilian religious practices such as candomblé. The genre also incorporated elements from American rock n’ roll, psychedelia and surf music which served to create an innovative fusion sound that drew upon multiple sources simultaneously. This open engagement with different cultures contributed to tropicalia being seen as representative of a more cosmopolitan approach to music making.
Mariachi is another important example of modernist-cosmopolitan musical traditions in Latin America. Originating in Mexico during the 19th century, mariachi has become increasingly popular over time due largely to its incorporation of sounds imported from Europe such as polka and waltz along with indigenous rhythms like son jarocho or huapango arribeño. By blending traditional Mexican folkloric styles with European classical instruments like violins or trumpets, mariachi was able to reach new audiences around the world while still retaining its local flavor
The final genre within this group is salsa which developed out of Puerto Rico in the late 1950s but achieved widespread popularity across Latin America throughout the 1970’s due to innovations made by artists such as Celia Cruz who fused Cuban bolero melodies with jazz harmonies resulting in novel combinations never heard before at that time . Salsa continues to be one of most widely consumed genres worldwide today thanks largely due its diverse nature – incorporating elements from African drumming (mambo) , Cuban son montuno , guaracha dance music , guaguanco percussion styles together creating something completely original yet familiar enough for people outside Latin America understand without difficulty .
Overall these three musics are representative not only their respective countries but also embody an ethos global connectivity present within many other forms world wide; suggesting that ideas travel beyond borders & can be adapted local context give them entirely new life . Consequently they remain testament idea artistic expression should not confined national boundaries instead embraced universal language shared humanity regardless creed or origin – ultimately uniting us through our love for sound . Understood this way tropicalia , mariachi & salsa can collectively serve emblematic emblem powerful notion: we are all connected no matter what paths have taken