News Release

Hispanic Heritage Month Concert

Date: August 26, 2009

September 19

Featuring Makuza an Afro-Cuban jazz band based in Kansas City, Topeka's own Mariachi Habanero

Hispanic Heritage Month is observed nationally from September 15 until October 15. This program will focus on the rich and diverse musical history of Hispanic and Latino communities.

Makuza has become the premiere Afro-Cuban jazz band in Kansas City. They began as students at the University of Missouri, Kansas City (UMKC). Their name is synonymous with the musical rhythms of African and Latin American countries. The decade beginning in 1940 was a pivotal period in the development of Latin jazz, specifically Afro-Cuban jazz. From 1950 until 1960 and beyond, these influences became particularly strong. The cultural influences continue to be part of the musical landscape of today.

Free and open to the public, September 19, 2009, 6:00 pm to 7:30 pm, at Brown v. Board of Education National Historic Site, 1515 SE Monroe Street, Topeka, Kansas, 66612. We invite you to enjoy the concert from the comfort of your own lawn chair, blanket, or one of our chairs. In case of rain, the concert will be held indoors.

To RSVP by September 17, call the Brown Foundation at [phone] or email by clicking here.