Un Levantamiento is an ode to the resilience of Puerto Ricans who have resisted colonial oppression for over 600 years! The composition honors Puerto Rico's indigenous Tainos, enslaved Africans, and working-class Criollos whether forced to migrate or to endure unacceptable conditions at home. 19th and 20th century rhythmic forms such as the mazurca, danza, seis Fajardeño, aguinaldo and plena are the vehicles to connect this heroic history with our efforts here in Oakland to remain connected to our ancestors and their freedom struggle. It is dedicated with love and gratitude to my 95-year old mother -  Dorothea Wilkinson, my Puerto Rican grandparents - Elizabeth Pérez, Fidel Cortés and Julio Pérez, and my Puerto Rican great grandparents - Domingo Pérez and Dominga Ramos Borrero.

This is the first time in the Bay Area, to our knowledge, that the national instrument of Puerto Rico, the 10-stringed cuatro, will be featured accompanied by a symphonic orchestra! 

1000 thanks to Living Jazz and the Oakland Symphony for this opportunity of a lifetime.

~ Notes by John Santos copyright 2024