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The Latin Beat Goes On

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By JOSE PATINO GIRONA

jpatino@tampatrib.com

Published: December 3, 2008

TAMPA - Hugo Amoedo didn't expect to be impressed by a traveling exhibit on Latin music.

But when he entered the trailer visiting Jefferson High School, he couldn't believe his find. "I like how they have a little bit of everything," said Amoedo, 17.

There were images and biography information of Cuban crooner Celia Cruz, purple ankle boots worn by Tejano singer Selena, wardrobe and accessories used by Ricky Martin, a dress worn by Gloria Estefan for the cover of her CD "Alma Caribena" and a platinum sales award plaque given to Jennifer Lopez for her album "On the 6."

The trailer was decked out with television screens that played highlights of Latin Grammy Awards, guitars signed by artists Marc Anthony and Marco Antonio Solis, and instruments and album covers from popular Latin stars. The display explained the changes in Latin music from the 1950s to the present, showing examples of salsa to today's popular reggaeton.

"It really helps in the education," said Daniel Gonzalez, field service coordinator for Eventus, a Miami-based marketing and promotions company that oversees the exhibit. "The students get a sense how Latin music has been a part of the American culture."

The presentation, called "Fiesta Tour: McDonald's Music Experience," is in its second year and stopped at Jefferson High, 4401 W. Cypress St., on Nov. 21. This year it made 18 stops nationwide to cities including Los Angeles; Grand Rapids, Mich.; New York; Houston and Miami. Next year it will have 40 stops at schools and festivals.

Jim Maddrey, foreign language department head at Jefferson High, said the exhibit increases the exposure of Hispanic artists who are more mainstream in America than in the past. He said 46 percent of the school's students are Hispanic.

"It is kind of the validation of Hispanic music as equal with rock 'n' roll and rap music," Maddrey said. "It is becoming more accepted even by non-Hispanics. Even non-Hispanics know Daddy Yankee."

Students Ramzy Jawwad and Victoria Jimenez said they were thrilled by the clothes, the music and history.

Reporter Jose Patino Girona can be reached at (813) 259-7659.

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