Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month

In recognition of Hispanic Heritage Month, St. Albans welcomed Pepe Gonzalez — an iconic bassist in the greater Washington, D.C., area. He was the co-founder and bassist for the group Zapata in the late 60s to mid-70s — celebrated for joining together African American and Latin musicians in D.C.

Gonzalez, who is a friend of Spanish teacher Ms. Clara Rivera, was joined by his band for a concert during an Upper School assembly. The group, consisting of keys, saxophone, drums, and bass, covered a wide range of Latin American musical styles, as Mr. Gonzalez shared stories of how the music connected to the history of the area and his culture.

Following the performance, students were able to ask questions and interact with the band members. 

Hispanic Heritage Week was officially established in 1968 and was expanded into a month, running from mid-September to mid-October in 1989. Over the course of the month, Chile, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico, and Nicaragua all celebrate their independence anniversaries