The Ethnomusicology Archives display case (just outside the Music Library) now contains an exhibit entitled "Songs of Solidarity," which was curated by Marlon Fuentes, B.A. student in Ethnomusicology. Marlon states, "the concept behind this display comes in two parts. One is to provide examples of music of protest and solidarity, and second to reflect on the advantages or disadvantages of technology. This music gives us a historical account of various movements which occurred in response to oppression and injustice. They give its audience the emotional component hard news fails to deliver. Music is one of the most powerful and beautiful forces in communication. Proof of this power can be found in the memories of those who lost their life making this music. The display also deals with the 12" Vinyl Record format of listening to music. In this regard... it provides the listener with a much greater aesthetic and educational value than the contemporary MP3 format. The cover art is very important to the release of a record and the liner notes included allow the listener to understand the material better. Compared to the familiar lines of text on a computer screen, the cultural value of vinyl is much greater. Visual, Literary and Sound. "
A reception to celebrate the exhibit took place on March 15, 2008. Students, faculty and friends gathered for an afternoon of music and cultural preservation. Members of the Peru Negro ensemble (who performed that night at Royce) were present and found their heritage well represented in the exhibit. Listen Recovery Crew DJs performed sets of protest music derived from the examples in the case. It was a great experience for everyone present.
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