We are the Music - SF Film Festival

This is the title of a Cuban documentary shown at the SF Film Festival April 28 and 30 (check schedule for times and locations sffs.org) Inspired by the unprecedented success of Buena Vista Social Club a couple of  years ago (the festival even booked Ritmo y Armonia for its closing party that year) the festival programmers followed up with a documentary about Los Van Van last year and this unique film this year. (Sorry, no details about that party, some reporters are less equal than others, but, most likely, salseros did not attend. Who could afford a hefty admission charge? Besides, the salsa community was not targeted for advertisements).

We Are the Music was made in 1964 by Rogelio Paris and edited by Nelson Rodriguez whose work is highlighted at this festival. There is almost no salsa here. It's mostly charanga, bolero, rumba and other styles of Cuban music featuring performers of that era including Celeste Mendoza, Chapottin, Bola de Nieve and others. One point to note: very African roots of this music. If you're curious about the origins of salsa this is one film not to miss.

Shown with it is a short Strings Over My City by Mayda Vilasis featuring all-female musical group Camerata Romeu performing in the 18th-century basilica. You'll enjoy images of Old Havana accompanied by baroque and Cuban music. Fans of Caribbean music should check out My Voice by an African-born director Flora Gomez. The movie is no Oscar contender, but the soundtrack is very pleasant.