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Ecuadorian musician Gerardo Guevara is dedicated to the recovery of popular Amazonian rhythms. His artistic life began in the 1990's. Since then, he has gravitated toward the compelling, primal sounds of native Amazonian music.

The Corporación Musicológica Ecuatoriana (CONMUSICA) is active in supporting Guevara's efforts. CONMUSICA, a non-governmental organization created in the 1990's promotes native Ecuadorian music. Since its inception, its sound archive (archivo sonoro) has been a hive of activity, with musicians and researchers documenting authentic Ecuadorian music forms via sound recordings, photo collections, sheet music, musical event programs and more. The majority of the material in this most important of Ecuadorian musical collections has been gleaned from the Andean and Amazon musical
traditions.

The Archivo Sonoro opened on June 18th, 1997. Unfortunately, the institute was forced to stop its work and close in February of 2003.

Guevara said this story is alltoo typical As an artist once remarked: "Once I decided to promote my music, but it did not work." The native rhythms musicians have no opportunities to promote their material. No recording studios or resources to rent them, no money to buy musical instruments, no open-minded radio stations to play their ageold rhythms. One by one, they have abandoned their craft.

So, being part of Archivo Sonoro of Ecuador is an honor. Guevara is so proud to be part of Ecuador's musical historical archives. We hope that the Archivo Sonoro raises its voice again.

Danzante No. 1 by Gerardo Guevara. Adapted version by César Santos Tejada.

The famous danzantes of the Pujilí y Salasacas (Andes) and Huaorani (Amazonía) are part of the Amazon and Andean culture.

Indigenous dance styles have evolved over time, mixing different traditional motifs. Today, danzante mestizo is as heterogeneous as the Ecuadorian people themselves.

Composers have elaborated upon and evolved styles such as danzonete cañari, danza india, danza campesina, and other danzante rhythms.