Buena Vista Social Club

Ry Cooder's name has helped bring attention to this session, but it's the veteran Cuban son musicians who make this album really special. Reminiscent of Ellington in its scope and sense of hushed romanticism, Buena Vista Social Club is that rare meld of quietude and intensity; while the players sound laid-back, they're putting forth very alive music, a reminder that aging doesn't mean taking to bed. Barbarito Torres's laoud solo on "El Cuarto de Tula" is both more blinding and more tasteful than any guitar showcase on any recent rock album; a quote from "Stormy Weather" and some very distinct parallels to Hawaiian styles remind us of why it's called "world music." --Rickey Wright
Customer Review: Essential for any music collection
I am a fan of many types of music including jazz, rock, dance, blues, bluegrass, classical, world, etc. This is easily one of the top 5 albums ever created, regardless of genre. It is a magical culmination of music, musicians, and timing. If you listen to this (no really, close your eyes and really listen) and are not moved by it, you had better check to see that you still have a heartbeat!
Customer Review: Modern classic
I don't consider my house a home without this album. I seriously put it on repeat. It's one of my favorite to cook and clean to and just leave in the stereo when guests arrive. The DVD of the making of this CD provides a valuable context to what these musicians had been through and make the experience of the album that much more potent for me--I'd recommend the DVD, as well. Ry Cooder does a great job with both.

Most American people are familiar with the fact the former President Bill Clinton played the saxophone, but there are many others famous leaders who played instruments too, including at least six other United States Presidents.

Patrick Henry and Benjamin Franklin played instruments during their free time off from building a nation. Patrick Henry played the flute and fiddle and Benjamin Franklin played the guitar and violin.

Thomas Jefferson, the third US President, was known for many things including the Declaration of Independence, the Louisiana Purchase, the lazy Susan, and the dumb waiter. He was also known to have played the cello, clavichord, and the violin.

John Quincy Adams, the sixth President, was known for the Monroe Doctrine, but he also was known to play the flute. Chester Alan Arthur, the twenty first US President, played the banjo. Woodrow Wilson, the 28th US President, created the League of Nations and played the violin. Harry Truman and Richard Nixon played the piano. Nixon also played the accordion.

Other famous leaders, Mahatma Gandhi, Sir Edward Heath, Ross Perot, and Condeleeza Rice also played or still play instruments. Mahatma Gandhi, peaceful leader of India's Nationalist movement, played the concertina. Sir Edward Heath, a former British Prime Minister, played the organ and was a conductor. Ross Perot, an independent candidate for US President, plays the accordion. Condeleeza Rice, US Secretary of State, plays the piano. At one time, she was even considering a career as a concert pianist.

Playing an instrument has been scientifically proven to improve focus, discipline, and study habits. It also acts as an outlet for creativity and stress release. There are many social benefits derived from playing an instrument. Being part of a band or orchestra provides camaraderie and teaches how to function as part of a group.

Can playing an instrument guarantee you an elected position? Of course not, but it may put you on the road to a successful career!

NOTE: Use of this article requires links to be intact.

Jesse Fisher enjoys writing articles for Allegro Rainbow- a business created to help people learn how to play musical instruments. I Can Play Guitar helps children learn to play the guitar in a fun and interesting way.

latin music artist