Fabiola Méndez is performing at the South Broadway Cultural Center in Albuquerque this April.
The Puerto Rican musician uses storytelling, folk music traditions and a variety of musical genres to weave together songs using the island’s signature instrument, the cuatro.
As a cuatrista and educator, she has gained recognition through an Emmy nomination with her compositions, which include incorporating Afro-Caribbean and jazz elements. With musings on cultural identity, her music contemplates the roots of the cuatrista tradition while also bringing a modern twist.
Méndez has performed at nationally recognized musical events, including the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival, the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City, the Instituto de Cultura Puertorriqueña, and even on National Public Radio’s Tiny Desk Concert.
The cuatro is unique to Puerto Rico, though there are many similar guitar-like instruments throughout Latin America. The five double-stringed instrument has made its way to Puerto Rican communities beyond the island itself, including in New York City, Honolulu, Orlando, and Minneapolis.
While there is reserved seating requiring a ticket, admission is free for the show. Concerts like this may choose to use printing services to create budget-friendly promotional material, audience programs, and season schedules.
Fabiola Méndez in Concert is happening on Saturday, April 18 from 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm at the South Broadway Cultural Center at 1025 Broadway Blvd SE in Albuquerque.
