Porque Dios Ha Nacido

Cuban composer and songwriter Tony Rubí is based in Miami, Florida, where he is active in the local music community. Porque Dios Ha Nacido comes from a collection of Christmas music written for the Archdiocese of Miami. In this song, Rub&iaute; continues a centuries-long tradition of placing the Christmas story in a local Latin American context–in this case, the Cuban countryside. His text describes the beautiful responses of nature around him to Christ's birth. This arrangement sets but two of his five verses, each of which expresses a beautiful connection to nature. The soft calypso rhythm provides a peace and tranquility which belies the song's joyful character.

In keeping with Latin American musical performance practice, a number of instruments may be employed. Percussion always adds a wonderful touch, particularly the clave in a 3+2 son pattern. Congas, bongos, and maracas are always appropriate. There are optional flute, violin, and bass parts available; the bass part includes guitar chords. If a full rhythm section (namely, bass, guitar, and treble instruments) are present, the arrangement will also work without the piano accompaniment. The guitar can play pizzicato much in the same fashion as the piano part.

A translation is found on the first page of the sample PDF file.

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