Since 1999, whenever I go back to the island I have the priviledge of spending time with Nelie J. Lebron-Robles, Emanuel Dufrasne-Gonzalez and Paracumbe. Emanuel and Nelie, Directors of Paracumbe, are fountains of knowledge on our folklore, having written books, articles and theses on the subject (see below). I have been fortunate to be able to take little workshops with them over the years to perfect my Plena character and be introduced to the graceful dance movements of Southern Bomba. (And ITS SO MUCH FUN shopping for books with Nelie!!)
After 20 years entertaining and educating the world on our folklore, Paracumbe will be opening a school of folkloric music and dance in Puerto Rico, La Academis de Paracumbe. Call (787) 769-2464, email paracumbe@excite.com, or visit their website at www.paracumbe.org for more information and cultural links.
Selected Bibliography:
Dufrasne-González, J. Emanuel (1985) Aspects of Homogeneity and Diversity of the music of Two Puerto Rican Municipalities: Loíza and Guayama. UCLA.
Dufrasne-González, J. Emanuel, "Puerto Rico también tiene Tambó," Impreso en Rio Grande, Puerto Rico, 1994."
Nelie Lebron, "Taller Conjunto Paracumbe...", UPR Master's Thesis.
CD by Paracumbé, "Tambó." (Its liner notes are also an excellent source of information on bomba and plena music and dance.)