The Reason We Boogie

You already know Latin music has a particular effect on you — you can’t resist gyrating your hips to the scintillating play of Santana, you’ve been known to bust out with the twist and the mashed potato when Richie Valens comes on the oldies station, and the undeniable exuberance of Celia Cruz makes you want to shake from head to toe. But as it turns out, there are less obvious reasons for the urge to shake your bootyus maximus when you hear bongos and electronic keyboards. The physics and technology of sonic pleasure come into play at the brand-new exhibit “Music Música.” Trust the Miami Science Museum to examine an issue from all sides.

“Music Música” combines two shows: “American Sabor: Latinos in U.S. Popular Music,” a memorabilia-packed display that reveals the impact of Hispanic talent on the American music scene; and “Access All Areas,” a fun, interactive exhibit that lets visitors try to keep a beat, sing in tune, mix tracks, play a never-ending scale, and do all kinds of other fun stuff. Through touching, singing, and playing, the underlying science of music reveals itself. The exhibit opens with a big ol’ community street party this Saturday. Come on out for games, rides, activities, food, and live musical performances by Latin Grammy nominee Alih Jey and others. From noon to 6 p.m., visitors can see the new exhibit and enjoy the entire museum at a discounted price. Adults pay $18, children $13, and kids under age three are free. Miami-Dade County residents receive 15 percent off ticket prices. Call 305-646-4209, or visit www.miamisci.org.
Sat., Oct. 25, 12-6 p.m., 2008