Thursday, December 2, 2010

"Los Chaskis" Local Andean Music in Utah


"Los Chaskis" de Utah

If you are looking for authentic and exciting music in Utah, look no further. “Los Chaskis,” based in Salt Lake City, are your best option when it comes to Andean music in Utah. A diverse group of composers, poets and musicians, the members of the group create a unique sound that draws from various regions of the South American Andes. The members of the group all have different nationalities, and their different backgrounds are the framework for the blend of folkloric, traditional Andean music that they play.


Edwin Román playing Peruvian pan-flute

During our events, we strive to create an atmosphere that invokes a spirit of “being there,” as we are a humanitarian organization working primarily in Andean nations. “Los Chaskis” were the key to fulfilling this aspect of the show during an amazing night of great food, appreciation, and entertainment at the equally spectacular venue of LaCaille. The music, well exciting and uplifting, was perfect for our formal event and was never overbearing.

Mario Gonzales from Bolivia on Guitar

Although some members of the group rotate show to show, “Los Chaskis” performed with a three-man ensemble the night of our event. Each member masterfully plays a variety of instruments and knows a large repertoire of music. Traditional songs from Venezuela, Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, and Chile were performed with hints of each country’s influence permeating into each song. Instruments included the Charango (a small lute-like guitar played by Mario Gonzales from Bolivia), Peruvian Pan-flutes (played by Edwin Román from Peru), a Venezuelan harp (played skillfully by group member Eligio Garcia from Venezuela), guitars and assorted percussion.

Eligio Garcia playing a Venezuelan Harp

The Ascend Alliance was honored to have this amazing group perform for our annual Partner Appreciation dinner, and we were so surprised by their skill and professionalism that we decided to write this review on their performance and establish an ongoing partnership for future events. We highly recommend “Los Chaskis” for formal or informal events, and for people who are just looking to have great music at their event regardless of whether or not they are looking specifically for Andean music. You will surely not be disappointed!

Contact:

Edwin Román
Phone: (801) 702-3075
edwin_romay@hotmail.com