Learn about the Fleisher Collection's Cuban Music Project: Alma Vieja/Alma Nueva through an exhibit featuring images from curator Gary Galván's two trips down to Cuba, Cuban instruments, an interactive digital map, musical samples, a newly engraved score that the Collection produced, and more. This exhibit is on display outside the Fleisher Collection on the first floor, January through April.

The Cuban Music Project exemplifies the historical value of the orchestral works that Edwin Fleisher and his Collection have acquired. Because Fleisher started collecting performance sets in 1909, he ensured the survival of thousands of works that have been lost in the destruction of both World Wars and those who have fallen victim to the almighty dollar sought by publishing companies. Through the efforts of initiatives like the WPA Music Copying Project, the Fleisher Collection has acquired 24 Cuban orchestral compositions that do not exist anywhere else in the world. As the United States and Cuba begin to renew diplomatic relations after over half a century of contention, the Fleisher Collection is endeavoring to say more about the brotherhood between the Cuban and American people through musical diplomacy than any politician ever could by returning these 24 works to Cuban stages and bringing new Cuban orchestral music to the audiences around world.

If you are interested in supporting our Cuban Music Project, contact the Fleisher Collection at (215) 686-5313 or at fleisher@freelibrary.org