Inca Son
Inca Son
Overview
Biography
Workshops
Reviews
Honors and Notable Appearances
Quotes & Recommendations
The Opinions of Educators
Discography
Technical Requirements
The Ixtlan Artists Group • www.ixtlanArtists.com • [email protected] • 800.961.9601
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Inca Son
Overview
A Rare Talent
Inca Son’s purpose is to introduce and
educate people to the riches of Andean
Culture. The group presents traditional
music and dance of the Andes Mountains
of Peru and Latin America in authentic
and colorful Inca attire. Every song and
dance has a special importance, meaning
or background in Andean folklore, and
thus each is briefly described before being
performed.
Inca Son plays music from the Andes of
Peru, and of all Latin America. The group
performs traditional songs, which the
musicians rearrange to create a unique
style, as well as original compositions.
Several of the songs from their last three
recordings -- including "Ascope, Tierra
del Amanecer," "Cholita Tania," "El
Abuelito," and "Inti Libertad" by Cesar
Villalobos -- are hits in Peru. The
instruments that are used, with the
exception of the stringed instruments, are
made by the musicians themselves.
Inca Son presents full-scale stage productions; lecture/performances for schools, directs student
workshops and/or provides musical training. The company has available: professional sound
equipment; a variety of uniforms, including an extraordinary collection of Inca attire; stage
props, and a source of native dancers who perform dances of the Andes and/or of the coast of
Peru (Afro-Peruvian).
“Andean music is about playing from the heart. That’s what we do.”
– Cesar Villalobos (from the Boston Herald)
The Ixtlan Artists Group • www.ixtlanArtists.com • [email protected] • 800.961.9601
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Inca Son
Biography
Caesar Villalobos
(1 of 2 )
INCA SON: Music & Dance of the
Andes’ own musical journey is a long
one, stretching from the mountains of
the Peruvian Andes to Boston,
Massachusetts. The group was
founded by multi-talented musician,
dancer, composer, and teacher, Cesar
Villalobos L., whose Peruvian roots
permeate his artistic endeavors.
Villalobos, born in Ascope, La
Libertad, Peru, is the son of a Shaman.
He was taught the knowledge of his
culture’s indigenous arts. Cesar was
brought up in a family of 13 brothers
and sisters. Cesar Villalobos’ ancestors
were all Inca and he is very proud of
his Inca heritage. Cesar Villalobos’
mission is to introduce and educate
people to the riches of the Andean
culture and to preserve the Inca
history.
Cesar, as a self-taught musician and
dancer, participated in local music and
dance events as a child, starting at the
age of five. While in Peru he
performed with the acclaimed national
dance troupe “Matices Peruanos.” Villalobos came to the United States in 1985 where he
taught traditional dance, first in California and then across the country.
Three years later, in 1988, he formed INCA SON. Since its creation, with Cesar’s many years
of experience, INCA SON has gone on to world acclaim, and recognition as one of the world’s
foremost world music groups. They have performed on such prestigious stages as those of
Carnegie Hall and Lincoln Center in NY; and the White House, US Capitol and Kennedy
Center in Washington D.C. and performed for presidents Jimmy Carter and Bill Clinton.
A talented lyricist and composer, Villalobos-who performs both with the group and as a
soloist-has written and recorded the band’s most beautiful songs. Inca Son has recorded 12
CD’s to date, which feature original compositions, traditional songs, and original
arrangements of contemporary tunes.
The Ixtlan Artists Group • www.ixtlanArtists.com • [email protected] • 800.961.9601
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Inca Son
Biography
Some of his accomplishments are: contributing to the musical scores of documentaries such
as the PBS series “Columbus in the Age of Discovery”; collaborating with major symphony
orchestras, including the Boston Pops (Keith Lockhart, Conductor); and Chicago’s Grant Park
Orchestra (Carlos Kalmar, Conductor).
“… Their music is of the highest caliber and their warmth of personality makes each project a special
one…” Keith Lockhart, Conductor, Boston Pops
Cesar Villalobos L. portrayed the Holy Man of a Native American village in the independent
film “The Magic Stone”.
“…He brought dignity to the role…He was inventive, creative, and a joy to work with…”
Pamela Berger, Producer & Director, “The Magic Stone”
(2 of 2)
“…Cesar Villalobos performs music because it comes from his heart, not as a way to become famous or
rich. Humble, sensitive, goodhearted, his personality shines through his work, and led him to return to his
native land. In 1993, he built “Boston Playground” in his home town of Ascope, and in 2001 he put
proceeds from his anniversary concert toward the reconstruction of the Santa Ana Church in Ayacucho. He
is a tireless friend of those who dream of leaving Peru in search of a better life…”
Jesus Raymundo, writer, El Peruano, Lima, Peru, December 3, 2003
Cesar Villalobos L. is the recipient of many coveted awards, honors and “Certificates of
Recognition” from Mayors, Senators, Governors and Presidents for his music and for his love
of the Peruvian culture. He has received the prestigious 2007 Champions of Arts Education
Award for “Distinguished Arts Educator in Music” from the Massachusetts Alliance for Art
Education(MAAE).
He is a very professional and engaging teacher. He has almost 20 years of experience in giving
workshops focusing on Andean music, dance, and culture. He is most proud of having
performed for over 1200 educational programs.
After almost 20 years of performing for all types of venues-concert halls, festivals, museums,
theaters-it is the concert for students at schools and universities that INCA SON enjoys.
“Young people make up our most enthusiastic audiences,” says Cesar Villalobos L. “They have
a natural appreciation for our music. We hope, through them, to instill an appreciation and
support for the Inca legacy.”
Inca Son continues to flourish, performing throughout the United States, Canada, Europe,
and Latin America, expanding its fan base and spreading their culture and music.
The Ixtlan Artists Group • www.ixtlanArtists.com • [email protected] • 800.961.9601
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Inca Son
Workshops
Cesar Villalobos L., Founder / Creative Director of Inca Son, is a very professional and
engaging teacher. He has almost 20 years of experience in giving workshops focusing on
Andean music, dance, & culture. He received the “2007 Distinguished Art Educator in Music
Award” from the Massachusetts Alliance for Arts Education (MAAE) for superior teaching,
professional involvement, leadership beyond the classroom, and ability to communicate
effectively about arts education. He has also received “Recognitions of Distinction” from Senator
John F. Kerry and Senator Edward M. Kennedy for winning this award.
(1 of 1)
Musical Workshop
Students learn how to play basic tunes on Andean pan-flutes know as the siku. They leave the
workshop with sufficient understanding of the instrument to be able to advance on their own.
In advance of the music workshop, teachers may receive a little booklet about the siku (doublerow pan-flutes) for students.
Dance Workshop
In the dance workshop the students pair with a partner and are taught century-old steps and
formations to festive Andean melodies.
Lecture Workshop
Lastly, there is a lecture workshop in which Inca beliefs, tradition, philosophies, knowledge,
medicines and values are discussed in detail.
The Ixtlan Artists Group • www.ixtlanArtists.com • [email protected] • 800.961.9601
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Inca Son
Reviews
“Since his arrival here in Boston in 1985, Mr. Villalobos has worked as an artist/education for the public’s
benefit and, most especially, for school children. He and Inca Son have consistently received high marks by
MCC (Massachusetts Cultural Council) review panels for their excellent work and have been awarded
MCC funds to support programs of traditional Andean music and dance in more than 30 Massachusetts
schools. It has been a pleasure to work with Cesar Villalobos and his ensemble Inca Son Music and Dance
of the Andes.” - Mary Kelley, Executive Director of MCC
“As the organizer of these events and a member of the Caribbean and Latin American Studies advisory
board, I can attest that Inca Son provided an excellent introduction to Andean culture to our university
and the surrounding community. We thank them for their talent, enthusiasm, and good will.” – Evelyn
Powell Jennings, PH.D., Saint Lawrence University
“We highly recommend this group to continue being cultural ambassadors and to bringing enjoyment and
musical artistry to others.” - Myrt Barber, Theatre Director, Pasco Schools Center for the Arts at River Ridge
“The members of the ensemble demonstrated impressive mastery of their instruments, as well as a great
energy and bravado presenting music above and beyond expectation. The ambience they created with their
music was festive and exuberant. Their performance had such an impact on the crowd that many members
of the audience were moved to jump from their seat to dance to the music. Even our honored speaker
Sargent Shriver could not resist dancing on stage as he entered.” -Dane F. Smith, President, National Peace
Corps Association
“The ensemble literally had people dancing in the aisles – not an easy feat for a symphonic performance.”
– James W. Palermo, Artistic and General Director, Chicago Park District, Grant Park Music Festival
"....I have been an educator for over twenty years and have seldom witnessed a more engaging and
powerful presenter. Our students and our school have been enriched tremendously because of the two days
we spent with Inca Son and I am grateful that performers of this caliber understand the importance of
working with our young audience." - Patricia Montimurro, Principal, Robert Melican Middle School
".... Inca Son was awarded membership on the New England Touring Program roster. Thus the New
England Foundation for the Arts supports the activities of Inca Son through grants......the New England
Touring Program receives funding from the National Endowment for the Arts, the six New England state
arts agencies, and leading corporations and foundations. Inca Son has earned a reputation as a very high
quality touring ensemble. We are proud to be associated with their activities. Furthermore, Mr. Villalobos
exemplifies reliability as well as musicianship as an ensemble leader......we have received only compliments
about Inca Son's interactions with communities..." -Rebecca Blunk, Deputy Director, New England
Foundation for the Arts (NEFA)
The Ixtlan Artists Group • www.ixtlanArtists.com • [email protected] • 800.961.9601
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Inca Son
Awards & Notable
Performances
2007 Winner of Independent Music Award, "Best World Traditional Song"
Champions of Arts Education Award for "Distinguished Arts Educator of Music" to
Cesar Villalobos
2006 Epcot Center, Disney World, Florida
Sanders Theater concert at Harvard University in Cambridge, MA
2005 National Geographic Museum's "Peru: Indigenous and Viceregal", attended by
Peruvian First Lady
Gala concert for Peruvian Ambassadors, United State Capitol, Washington D.C.
2004 Concert tours throughout Italy
"Outstanding Latino Group" winner at Teatro del Verme in Milan, Italy
Smithsonian's National Museum of the American Indian-Opening parade.
2003 “AmericArtes Festival”, Headliners, Kennedy Center in Washington D.C.
Prestigious "Order of the Sun" awarded to Cesar Villalobos L from the Peruvian
government in tribute to Inca Son's distinguished career.
2002 Winter Olympics, Salt Lake City, Utah
2001 Chicago's Grant Park Orchestra
Kennedy Center’s 30th Anniversary in Washington, D.C
2000 Performed with Keith Lockhart & the Boston Pops at Symphony Hall, Boston, MA
Collaborated on the Boston Pops Latin album
1999 Winner Boston Music Awards "Outstanding World Music Act"
1998 The Pyramid, Memphis, TN-Headliners at the world's largest Peruvian Exhibition
"Ancestors of the Incas"
1997 "Best World Music Group", Boston Phoenix Music Poll
International Folk Arts Festival in Moscow, Russia for the city's 850th Anniversary
1996 Festival Mondial de Folklore de Drummondville in Quebec, Canada;
Awarded "Certificate of Distinction" at the Festival Mondial de Folklore
Official Entertainment, Summer Olympics in Atlanta, GA
1995 "Cultural Ambassador of Peru", Honorary title bestowed on Cesar Villalobos L. by the
National Press of Peru (ANAP)
1994 World Cup Soccer, Official entertainment
President Bill Clinton was present at the National Governors’ Conference performance
1992 "Year of the Indigenous People" at the United Nations in New York
1991 PBS Series-collaborated on the musical score for "Columbus and the Age of Discovery”
President Jimmy Carter was present at the Human Rights Awards performance.
The Ixtlan Artists Group • www.ixtlanArtists.com • [email protected] • 800.961.9601
Promotional text and high-resolution photos available for download.
Inca Son
Quotes &
Recommendations
“...On behalf of the National Peace Corps Association, I would highly recommend Inca Son for any
special occasion that calls for a professional, festive musical ensemble. I would venture to say Inca Son
is the best group of kind north of the Andes....”
Dane Smith, President, National Peace Corps Association, July 8, 2002
“...The audience, which numbered nearly eight thousand, was mesmerized by the haunting Andean
melodies, the high level of musicianship the ensemble members exhibited throughout the evening and
the sincerity of the group under its inspired leader, Cesar Villalobos...The ensemble literally had people
dancing in the aisles-not an easy feat for a symphonic performance.”
James Palermo, Artistic Director, Chicago’s Grant Park Orchestra Music Festival, September 14,
2001
“...Their music is of the highest caliber...In my opinion they have become indispensable cultural
ambassadors of this nearly lost South American folk tradition....”
Keith Lockhart, Conductor, Boston Pops Orchestra, October 26, 2000
“...They captivate their audience with educational, enriching, and entertaining performances. I feel the
group is an important cultural resource in the United States, from entertaining children in small schools
around the country to performing huge shows such as the Olympic Games in Atlanta in 1996. In my
opinion, Inca Son has proven to be true cultural ambassadors.”
Vincent Ryan, Consular of Peru, Boston, MA, June 17, 1998
(1 of 2)
“...We strive to hold festivals that have a cohesive, educational, and exciting theme, and Inca Son’s
performance went above and beyond our expectations...Inca son’s music filled the whole museum with
an extremely positive energy that virtually transported our visitors to a different place and time, and
gifted them with a rare and beautiful auditory experience of Incan life....”
Michelle Hagewood, Education Coordinator, The Walters Art Museum, January 10, 2006
“Our event, the third largest flower show in the world, is one of Boston’s best-loved traditions and
Cesar and Inca Son have become a treasured aspect of the event for many of our loyal visitors...Their
music is the perfect accompaniment to our gardens-making the event truly a symphony for the senses!
Carolyn Weston, Director, MA Horticultural Society, New England Flower Show, April 20, 2001
“...Not only are the musician’s talent and musical skills superb, but their presentation is both impressive
and captivating. Also, the dancers were so energetic and lovely that the audience could not help but
want to get up and dance with them. The beautiful costumes and the staging full of vibrant colors make
the Inca Son performance visually pleasing. As they start their first song, you feel as though you are in
a far away place in the Andes Mountains....”
Mariko Hancock, Director of the Fine Arts Center, Castleton Vermont State College, November 30,
2006
The Ixtlan Artists Group • www.ixtlanArtists.com • [email protected] • 800.961.9601
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Inca Son
Quotes &
Recommendations
“Don’t waste another second trying to decide whether or not to have Inca Son perform at your
school!....I was deeply moved by the way our students and faculty embraced Inca Son’s music and the
culture they represent. It was undeniably some of the best money we’ve ever spent on a performance,
and I have no doubt that our students will long remember how special it was...”
Shelley Borror Jackson, Head of School, Bement School, Deerfield, MA, December, 2006
“...I don’t know what it is about the Inca music, but I just love it and I just can’t get enough of it!..
David Mullen, September 5, 2006
“...The music of Inca Son is excellent, always! But, it seems to me that when you are giving your music
to help Villa La Paz, you are filled with even more passion and joy.....You have been for us a window to
see the culture and the human situation of Peru...your support for Villa La Paz is part of a much wider
peace based on social justice and the peace of God...”
Pastor Warren Clark, First United Church of Tampa, Florida, November 21, 2003
(2 of 2)
“...The crowd was enchanted, moved and educated by Cesar’s ability to communicate the spirit of his
heritage through music, dance and historical discussion. For audiences of any age, this is an opportunity
to grow and expand our horizons with a deepened appreciation for world music and the many peoples of
our world community. We salute Cesar as an ambassador and artist in this mission.”
Ginny Mazur, Community Partnership Director, Goddard House, November 10, 2000
“...Their gorgeous Incan Costumes add an extra touch of authenticity to their performances...”
Sally Alcorn, Executive Director, Harvard Square Business Association, June 12, 1992
“...I recommend them highly to anyone looking for a dynamic cultural music experience.”
Nancy DellaRocco, Artist Manager, Oxfam America, September 25, 1991
“...Inca Son is a truly outstanding group in the finest tradition of cultural exchange.”
Sandra Graves-Muto, Modern Language Dept., Brooks School, N. Andover, MA, November 2. 1992
“...Your music is a God connection for me better than any Prozac. Thank you from my heart. I now go
to Waterfire (Festival in Providence, RI) to listen to Inca Son...” - Susan Levin, August 24, 2005
The Ixtlan Artists Group • www.ixtlanArtists.com • [email protected] • 800.961.9601
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Inca Son
The Opinions
of Educators
" ....I have been an educator for over twenty years and have seldom witnessed a more engaging and
powerful presenter. Our students and our school have been enriched tremendously because of the two
days we spent with Inca Son and I am grateful that performers of this caliber understand the importance
of working with our young audience." Patricia Montimurro, Principal, Robert Melican Middle
School
"...It is what society as a whole and education systems in particular need more of."
Roxana Tourigny, Director, University of Rhode Island
"...As students and faculty were filing out of the auditorium I overheard their comments; "That was
awesome!", "That was the best assembly we've ever had", "Thank you for bringing INCA SON to our
school". I am sure you have left a lasting message of friendship, pride, cooperation and tolerance that will
fill our halls and classrooms for months to come." Dennis Azevedo, Principal, Silver Lake Middle School
"... Our preschool students had learned about Peru, but allowing them to participate in the music and
dance was almost like taking them there...They also felt very special to have the opportunity to ask you
questions about life in the mountains of Peru. The infants and toddlers also had a great time.....We found
your ability to address such a diverse group remarkable and would appreciate your kind presence again
some day." Sister Louise Kearns, Director, Julie's Family learning Program, Inc.
"... Inca Son's performance was magnificent! Our students and staff were mesmerized by the sights and
sounds. By the end of the performance, many were up and dancing! Everyone is still talking about the
experience." Medina Peyton, Principal, Atlantic City Schools, Sovereign Avenue School
"... Inca Son is a valuable asset to our cultural exchange here at Philips Academy....Mr. Villalobos is an
ambassador for his culture..." Mike Ebner, Director, Phillips Academy
"...The many positive evaluations that we received are indicative of the high quality of your performance
and the sincere appreciation of the teachers present." Donald Reutershan, Department of Education,
Augusta, Maine
"...Your program, enthusiasm, respect for the students, and sheer joy in your music was truly wonderful to
see and hear.” Maureen Costello, Director, The Cultural Education Collaborative
"What a happy and glorious two days we had with Inca Son Music and Dance of the Andes!..Not only are
the musician's talents and musical skills superb, but their presentation is both impressive and
captivating.....As they start their first song, you feel as though you are in a far away place in the Andes
Mountains...I highly recommend Inca Son to any venues and occasions where good world music and
cultural diversity are appreciated." Mariko Hancock, Director of the Fine Arts Center, Castleton State
College of Vermont
"As the Manager of Youth Programs at the museum in Washington, D.C., I recently had the pleasure of
bringing the group Inca Son to perform for a family program. After running a workshop teaching children
and families how to play the pan pipes, the group gave two music and dance performance over the
course of the afternoon. They were wonderful!!.....It is my hope that they...continue to bring their wealth of
knowledge and talent to the youth and families of the Unites States." Mieke Fay, Manager, National
Museum of Women in the Arts, Washington D.C.
The Ixtlan Artists Group • www.ixtlanArtists.com • [email protected] • 800.961.9601
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Inca Son
Discography
Ascope, Land of the Dawn
Released: 1991
Let’s Go to My Land
Released: 1993
Song to Freedom
Released: 1995
(1 of 2)
My Change
Released: 1997
Peace on Earth
Released: 1999
Magical Romance
Released: 2000
Tender Eyes
Released: 2001
The Ixtlan Artists Group • www.ixtlanArtists.com • [email protected] • 800.961.9601
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Inca Son
Discography
When the Heavens Cry
Released: 2001
Return of the Inca
Released: 2002
Free Spirit
Released: 2003
(2 of 2)
Paradise
Released: 2005
Live from Sanders Theatre (Harvard)
Released: 2007
Other Available Inca Son Albums
Peru: A Musical Journey
Released: 2002
The Latin Album
Featuring: The Boston Pops,
Keith Lockhart
Released: 2002
Inca Son
Released: 2004
The Ixtlan Artists Group • www.ixtlanArtists.com • [email protected] • 800.961.9601
Promotional text and high-resolution photos available for download.
Inca Son
Ixtlan Artists
ARTIST REPRESENTATION
Inca Son is represented in North America by Ixtlan Artists Group, Inc.,
an agency representing the very best in traditional, roots, ethnic and world music.
Information and downloadable press kits are available at www.IxtlanArtists.com, or
contact Robin Troup at [email protected] or 800.961-9601 toll free.
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The Ixtlan Artists Group • www.ixtlanArtists.com • [email protected] • 800.961.9601
Promotional text and high-resolution photos available for download.