Every month, TLR hosts a special Thank God It’s Friday (TGIF) event, a chance for members to share their unique skills, stories, and knowledge. The most recent TGIF featured an amazing talk from our dear TLR Family members Cata and Esteban who came together to reflect on the universal language of music.
Kicking off the event was TLR’s fantastic Community Manager, Valeria.
With her trademark infectious enthusiasm, Valeria began by setting the tone for what promised to be an engaging and enlightening journey through the world of music. As attendees settled into their seats, anticipation filled the air for what was to come.
Up next was TLR Family members Cata and Esteban, both passionate music enthusiasts and advocates, who took the stage amid a wave of applause.
With a dynamic presentation that seamlessly blended storytelling and multimedia elements, they embarked on a captivating exploration of music’s role as a cultural cornerstone and unifying force.
The duo began by tracing the historical roots of music, highlighting its evolution from ancient rituals and celebrations to modern-day expressions of artistry and identity.
Through thought-provoking anecdotes and compelling visuals, Cata and Esteban underscored the universal nature of music, transcending language and cultural barriers to resonate with people from all walks of life.
One of the evening’s focal points was the examination of specific musical genres, namely salsa and rock, and their profound impact on social movements throughout history.
From the infectious rhythms of salsa to the rebellious spirit of rock, Cata and Esteban illuminated how these genres have served as catalysts for change, giving voice to marginalised communities and sparking cultural revolutions.
Cata and Esteban emphasised how rock music, for instance, emerged from a rebellious movement. In the 1960s and 1970s, bands like The Rolling Stones and The Beatles didn’t just create music; they created a cultural revolution.
Their songs became anthems of social change, addressing issues such as civil rights, war, and personal freedom. Rock music provided a voice to the youth, challenging the status quo and inspiring generations to push for societal reforms.
Similarly, salsa music was shown to have grown as a voice for social problems, particularly in Latin American communities. With its upbeat tempo and lively rhythms, salsa often carried profound and poignant messages within its lyrics.
Artists like Rubén Blades used salsa to address social and political issues, singing about poverty, inequality, and the struggles of daily life. The lively nature of salsa provided a way for people to deal with difficult situations through dance and music, turning hardships into communal celebrations of resilience and hope.
But it wasn’t just the content of the talk that left attendees spellbound – it was the presentation itself. With some of the most captivating slides ever seen at a TGIF event, complete with lively animations and striking imagery, Cata and Esteban brought their narrative to life in a truly immersive way.
For those unable to attend the event in person, fear not! The recording of the slides and the full talk was made available to all TLR Family members via email, ensuring that everyone could partake in the enriching experience.
As the evening drew to a close, the TLR Family came together to celebrate the very essence of music in the best way possible – by dancing to it! With joyous laughter and rhythmic movements, attendees embraced the spirit of unity and connection that music so effortlessly fosters.
In reflection, the TGIF talk on the universality of music proved to be a resounding success, leaving attendees feeling inspired, enlightened, and deeply appreciative of the power of music to harmonise humanity.
What will the next TGIF event bring? TLR Family members will find out very soon!
*If you would like to join the next TLR event, check out our various subscription offerings here: https://tlr-coworking.com/subscriptions/. Our ‘Friend’ subscription, for example, is only €50/month and includes access to all TLR events and social gatherings, including the monthly TGIF!
About Cata and Esteban
Catherin, or simply Cata, is a Colombian architect.
She is deeply rooted in the land of rhythm and is passionate about sharing her love for salsa – an artistic expression intertwining history, culture, and rhythm.
Esteban considers himself a passionate music enthusiast and guitar performer.
He has a keen interest in exploring both new and “old” musical styles, delving into various expressions of music.
Jamming and sharing music with friends is one of Esteban’s favourite hobbies.
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