Hannibal-LaGrange to present workshop on Latin language, music and dance June 2-6

HANNIBAL, Mo. — Hannibal-LaGrange University is offering a workshop, “World Music Series: Latin America Camp – Learning Spanish Through Music and Dance,” for students in grades 7-12 from 9 to 11:30 a.m. June 2-6.

Led by Edwin Aybar, this program will introduce participants to the vibrant world of Latin American music and dance while incorporating Spanish language learning. Instrumentalists will explore salsa and bachata rhythms, singers will learn and perform songs in these styles, and dancers will showcase their moves in a special final performance at 11 a.m. on Friday, June 6.

The week-long curriculum is:

• Day 1: The Elements of Music – Introduction to Latin American music
• Day 2: Latin American Language – Indigenous, Spanish, and African influences; regional differences
• Day 3: Latin American Dance – Caribbean, South American, and Brazilian styles
• Day 4: Latin American Instruments – Spanish terminology and cultural significance
• Day 5: Recap and Performance

Registration is now open, with a fee of $95 per student and sibling discounts available. To register or for more information, contact Aybar at edwin.aybar@hlg.edu or 505-508-9687.

Aybar holds a doctorate in musical arts from North Dakota State University and master’s degrees in music from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville (music performance) and the University of South Dakota (music history). His undergraduate studies were completed at Wheaton College Conservatory.

Aybar has served as assistant professor of collaborative arts at the University of Jamestown, music instructor at New Mexico Highlands University, chair of the music department at Oklahoma Panhandle State University and has taught at several community colleges.

While studying music, Aybar developed a passion for Latin dance, which he has been teaching for more than 20 years in his own studio and at various universities.