Verizon Wireless ‘Corridos sin Fronteras, A New World Ballad Tradition’.

Verizon Wireless announced its sponsorship of the local showing of the Smithsonian Institution’s traveling exhibition “Corridos sin Fronteras, A New World Ballad Tradition” at the Museum of San Diego History beginning on January 14, 2005. The eight-month exhibition takes visitors on a musical and visual journey with stories that have been sung in communities in Mexico and the United States since the beginning of the nineteenth century.

“Verizon Wireless is proud to support the Museum of San Diego History in hosting this exhibition documenting and celebrating the cultural and historical significance of this unique music genre,” said Jonathan LeCompte, Verizon Wireless Southern California Acting President. “Our partnership with The San Diego Historical Society is one more way we can proudly demonstrate our commitment to support events that are important to our customers.” Whether recounting the adventures of rebels of the Mexican Revolution, hailing Cesar Chavez for his efforts in establishing a farm workers’ union, or addressing modern day social problems, “Corridos” –Mexican narrative songs– embody admired values such as bravery, loyalty, respect and compassion. The bilingual exhibition recreates the historical development of “Corridos” in four core sound stations and three video stations that feature musical instruments, costumes, memorabilia, historical documents, photographs, a musical interactive unit and a map detailing its origin. Visitors will enjoy the use of a state of the art portable sound system (wand) that provides “Corridos” music and bilingual descriptions.

“This truly remarkable exhibit brings to life a beloved singing tradition that has existed for almost a century,” said Pedro Ochoa, Cultural Attaché of the San Diego Mexican Consulate’s Office. “It was very important that the exhibit find its way to Southern California and, thanks to the support of Verizon Wireless, this objective came to fruition.”

During its run, the Museum of San Diego History will also host special cultural events, including films, speakers, musicians and collectors of “Corridos” memorabilia.