The Westhampton Beach Performing Arts Center will present the diverse and exciting music of Latin American women traveling the world on the concert tour, “Putumayo Presents Latinas: Women of Latin America,” on Sunday, October 10, at 8p.m.

            This celebration if the soulful and inspirational music of Latin American women features three extraordinary divas representing a cross-section of contemporary and traditional Latin American music: Toto la Momposina from Colombia, Belo Velloso from Brazil and Mariana Montalvo from Chile.

            Toto La Momposina is a Colombian singer and dancer who has earned respect and admiration around the world for the power and spontaneity of her live performances.  Drawing on the music and dance of the Colombian Caribbean, her work id informed and inspired by a cultural mix that combines elements of African, Native American and Spanish traditions. 

            Mariana Montalvo provides fresh interpretations of the traditional music of Chile, with the influences from the nueva cancion tradition of sophisticated and powerful music based on folkloric song forms.

            Belo Velloso, niece of two of Brazil’s most popular musicians, Caetano Veloso and Maria Bethania, was raised in Bahia, the Brazilian with the most profound African cultural influences, and was exposed first-hand to the work of some of the greatest names in popular Brazilian music as well as samba and bossa nova. 

Women have long played an essential role in the musical life if Latin America.  Theirs are the voices that carry tradition, through lullabies sung to sleepy children or tunes brought foth during times of celebration.  From generation to generation, women have helped serve as the collective memory of Latin American music. 

While the artists featured in the “Latinas” tour reflect many different styles and histories, they share a connection to local traditions.  They all reflect the influences of European, African and Native American cultures that are at the heart of Latin American music.  And their voices carry a positive message inspired by the past and the present that echoes across the generations. 

Putumayo World music was established in 1993 to introduce people to the music of other cultures.  The label has become known primarily for its upbeat and melodic compilations of of great international music that are “guaranteed to make you feel good!”  Media sponsor for this program is WLIU, 88.3 FM.