 "Photo: Photo by Shaun Carmody of The San Matean")
No one taught Rudy Ramirez how to feel about music, he lived it. This was the message he portrayed in his World Beat Groove presentation on Nov. 7 in the main theater.
The event began with the collaboration of The Rhythm Shakerz, an African drum ensemble, followed by a PowerPoint presentation given by Ramirez, explaining the background of world beat music.
Ramirez's band, Zanzibar set off the party with music in several languages and a carnival led by Ramirez himself that came from the top and made its procession around the theater.
Ramirez's daughter, Missy Ramirez, who is a CSM student, performed a belly dance piece afterwards.
"We play for change," said Ramirez. "Music is the language of the world. It crosses all boundaries, generations, genders and cultures. That's the power of music, that's the beauty and we're doing change and can't go wrong."
The audience interacted with the performers throughout the event.
"It was a great event; it raised awareness for this new genre of music. It was energetic and everyone got really into it and got up from their seats to dance," said student Daniella Medeiro, 20.
A raffle was held as well, in which free passes to the zoo and Six Flags were given away.
As the final performance, the Rhythm Shakerz joined Zanzibar in song.
Ramirez is known for hosting events where he explains and showcases different genres of world music.
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