In this episode of Sonido Babel [Babel Sound], we are introduced to Venezuela's national instrument: the cuatro, which can be heard in almost all Venezuelan folk music.

Michael brings us into the world of the Andean guitar, introducing us to some of its characteristic melodies and explaining some techniques for both playing and caring for it.

In this episode of Sonido Babel, we'll learn about plena: a musical genre from Puerto Rico that is played with a multitude of different instruments and deals with a plethora of topics from religion, events, recipes, advice, and even superstitions.

Luis Guitarra sings us a catchy melody that addresses the topic of nonverbal communication, which often provides far more insightful information about a person than whatever he or she might say.

Vocal technique is the control of our lungs when we sing. In this video, we'll learn some different vocal techniques that can be practiced to warm up our voices. Let's practice them together and get ready to sing!

Babel Music introduces us to the quitiplás, a fascinating musical instrument from Mestizo America that is made of bamboo and comes in different sizes and pitches.

Let's learn about the Andean transverse flute, an age-old musical instrument that is typically played during baptisms, wakes, and the Inti Raymi celebrations in June in Otavalo, Ecuador.

In this episode of Sonido Babel [Babel Sound], we'll learn a bit about the origin and history of rap music. We've even invited rapper Junior High to join us, who'll help you learn more Spanish with a very special rap.

Although Luis Guitarra's favorite musical instrument is the guitar, he has a passion for and knowledge about many others, which he is happy to share.

Luis Guitarra performs for us one his original songs, inspired by not only his formal training at the Music Conservatory of Madrid, but also by his three most important musical influences: Joaquín Sabina, Silvio Rodríguez, and the group Los Secretos [The Secrets].

Spanish singer-songwriter Luis Guitarra tells us about his musical beginnings as well as the artists who have most influenced his manner of composing and writing music.

Luis Guitarra shares with us "Llegaste tú" [You Arrived], a song he wrote for his daughter some years ago to instill in her the need to, in spite of life's hardships, appreciate all the good things it brings us each day.

Spanish singer-songwriter Luis Guitarra teaches us to play his song "Todo es de todos" [Everything Belongs to Everyone] on the guitar. If you want to see how this song sounds live, enjoy a performance here.

Michael Guajan surprises us with yet another Andean instrument, in this case, the quena. Michael tells us about its origin, its different varieties, and its use in both Andean and world music.

In this episode of his series on Andean music, Michael shares with us some interesting facts about the guitar's origins and evolution.