Banreservas Cultural Center exalts the legacy of soneros Jesús “Kundengo” Minier and César Namnúm
In an emotional evening dedicated to the musical richness of the Dominican Republic, the Banreservas Cultural Center paid a well-deserved tribute to Jesús “Kundengo” Minier and César Namnúm. Both artists were recognized for an impeccable career spanning over five decades, during which time they have served as pillars in the research, preservation, and dissemination of the Dominican son.
The event, titled “A Ritmo de Son”, became a meeting point for lovers of traditional music, combining an atmosphere of dance and historical memory. During the ceremony, Mijaíl Peralta, manager of the Banreservas Culture Division, together with Ana María Henríquez of the Arte y Cultura Raíces Foundation, presented commemorative plaques to the honorees, highlighting their invaluable impact on the country’s cultural heritage.
Minier and Namnún’s dedication has been fundamental in keeping alive a genre that defines much of our Caribbean identity, passing this legacy from generation to generation.
An evening to the rhythm of the son
Music was the great protagonist of the night. The honorees not only received recognition, but also took the stage to perform essential classics from the sonero repertoire. Pieces such as “Ven mi morena”, “Celo al aire”, “Isabel”, “La Paloma” and the iconic “Cuarto de Tula” resonated in the venue, connecting deeply with the audience present.
The musical accompaniment was provided by Roberto Bobadilla and the group Son Urbano, who delighted attendees with a repertoire that included iconic songs such as “La Zona merece un son”, “Son a Villa Francisca”, and “Homenaje a Piro Valerio”. The ensemble was composed of outstanding musicians on piano, bass, trumpet, tres, bongo, and percussion.
Established trajectories
- Jesús “Kundengo” Minier: A guitarist and cuatrista of great skill, also recognized for his craftsmanship in building musical instruments. His life has been intrinsically linked to the safeguarding of Dominican musical roots.
- César Namnúm: A musician, broadcaster, and writer whose research work has been crucial for the academic and popular promotion of son, establishing himself as an intellectual and artistic reference for the genre.
This initiative, promoted by the Banreservas Cultural Center and the Raíces Art and Culture Foundation, reaffirms the institution’s commitment to highlighting the figures who have built the national cultural identity, ensuring that future generations continue to enjoy and recognize the importance of the Dominican son.
