Church Anniversary Speech

I just wanted to play the guitar

By Gabriel Benvenuto


That was my idea in the early 90's, learning to play guitar for it, I had to find an institution that could provide me with learning, which is why I applied-guitar hand-in Folklore and Cultural Association "Martin Fierro" Avellaneda, excited to help me that this instrument may arise beautiful notes turned into songs that will surely recreate special moments with family and friends.
Imagine my disappointment when I was informed that begin guitar lessons a few months later, and in return I was invited to attend the Argentine Folk Dance classes at that time taught by Professor Lila Batagliese. So I started to dance, almost unwillingly, but I must say that so great was my enthusiasm and love instilled in me by the customs and traditions of my country that I have not stopped until today.
So important was this step in my life that led me to study and receive Folkdance Professor venture and not just in dance but also in radio, theater and music of folk clubs and events, to become a way of living.
For that magic of fate, the same institution that helped me take those first steps today tells me on their roster of teachers, let me briefly describes the activities carried out there: The "Martin Fierro", as we affectionately call it-is located at Av Mitre 2226, Sarandi, Avellaneda, has already served 66 years of life and has a Steering Committee led by its President Mr. Carlos Dos Martyrs who works tirelessly to spread our culture. They are taught the following activities: Folkdance initial and advanced level, tapping, guitar, painting and tango, also has a well stocked library and a museum of folk art "Black Corradi" recently remodeled and has excellent parts collection, many of them donated by famous people of our community.
During the year, and coinciding with national holidays are scheduled "Creole lunch" with the artistic participation of students and teachers of the institution as well as local artists.
Another event that has had great impact on the community and municipal interest held by the Honorable Council of the Municipality of Avellaneda, is the "week of tradition" which takes place several years ago in November, starting with a large National Pericón Mitre Avenue and I has played lead from the start. This event is aimed at not only the dissemination of our traditions, but also collect non-perishable food to be distributed among such institutions, canteens, etc. Most in need, thus fulfilling those verses written by José Hernández in our Bible Gaucho, the "Martin Fierro" when he prays: "... the brothers are united, that is the first law, have real union in whatever time, because if they fight among outsiders devour ... "

If these lines help you become aware of and think whatever they do not know your history, your music, your customs, I invite you you come to know our Casa Gaucho-Folk and Cultural Association "Martin Fierro" and you meet other people who perhaps have the same concerns that I had that first moment when I realized how little I knew of my roots. Today I tell you unequivocally and can not like what we do not know, is like standing up for what we do not know .... Do not hesitate, you're always starting time especially learning from what most concerns us pass on our customs and traditions and thus defend our national identity.