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Abstract
This project emerged from a moment of introspection and self-discovery that strengthened my vision of unity and gave me a renewed sense of purpose. Its significance extends beyond my career, touching on my artistry and personal identity—driven by a deep need to reconnect with my cultural roots. It became a means to challenge long-standing stereotypes and the feeling of shame often associated with folkloric traditions, particularly the dialect and music of my region in Southern Italy and the traditional music of the Colombian Pacific coast. I dedicated my entire master’s program to exploring music, language, and instruments—such as the marimba de chonta—that are often overlooked in academic contexts. By placing these cultural narratives in dialogue, the project seeks to create new common grounds, encourage stylistic innovation, and build a repertoire rooted in both cultural preservation and creative evolution. It also offers an alternative to traditions that have been marginalized or fossilized by historical and social discrimination. This experience deeply reshaped my artistic vision, learning process, and worldview. It marked the beginning of a lifelong journey of growth, grounded in curiosity and empathy. Above all, It serves as both a personal and collective call to action for musicians to use their art in the service of global understanding and transformation.
Publication Date
7-1-2025
Campus
Boston Campus
Keywords
Cultural identity; Folkloric traditions; Marimba de chonta; Colombian Pacific music; Southern Italy
Recommended Citation
Cerra, Samuel. “Marimba: Echoes of the Jungle's Heartbeat.” Master's thesis, Berklee College of Music, 2025. https://remix.berklee.edu/graduate-studies-global-jazz/179.