Since yesterday, Wednesday, the practice of Cuban son has been recognized as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO. This rhythm, born in eastern Cuba, now joins the official list of recognized heritage. The news fills Cubans with pride for its worldwide influence.
The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) has included the practice of Cuban son on its list of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. This decision, announced recently, highlights the value of a musical genre originating from eastern Cuba, which Ignacio Piñeiro described as 'the most sublime entertainment for the soul'.
The recognition is based on a solid dossier prepared by the bearers of son, supported by the Center for Research and Development of Cuban Music, the Cuban Institute of Music, the National Council of Houses of Culture, and the National Council of Cultural Heritage. According to the Ministry of Culture, Cuban son is 'one of the basic expressions of Cuban music, with a high degree of hybridization of African and Hispanic music'.
This genre represents not only identity and enjoyment for Cubans but has also conquered hearts worldwide. Its chords create a joyful effect on the spirituality of those who hear it, making it impossible to stay still before its infectious choruses.
Tresero Pancho Amat expressed his joy in a message: 'Everyone who practices Son, those who sing it, those who dance it, those who listen to it, those who love it. It is a joy for Cubans to have given the world a genre that has invaded the world to the satisfaction of humanity'. This celebration extends to Caribbean brothers and sisters, Europeans, and Asians who have enriched son with new colors.