Irka Mateo

Irka is a key figure among world music songwriters and performers in the Dominican Republic. She is considered one of the most outstanding artists of this country for the quality of her music and lyrics and her contribution to the spreading of the Dominican cultural diversity. 

Her musical background is Brazilian music which she performed for more than 14 years in Europe, the Americas and the Caribbean. At the same time she was writing original compositions, fusing the rhythms of the Caribbean and Brazil. This in partnership with the Brazilian guitarist, composer and arranger Tadeu De Marco.

These are Images of my CD release concert. Photographs by Erika Morillo

Irka Mateo Trio

Brazilian Music

Irka Mateo, Voice
Gustavo Dantas, Guitar
Ze Mauricio, Percussion

Tuesdays, February 2,9,16 and 23 8:00p.m

@ HABANA ROOM

134 E 48 St. at Lexington. NYC
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IRKA MATEO's BAND "ANACAONA"

@ CULTURARTE  Anacaona Theater

Friday February 26, 8:00pm
260 Audubon Ave. at 178 St. NYC

@ BARBES

Friday April 16th, 8:00pm 
376 9th Street
Brooklyn, NY

Irka Mateo Duo

Irka Mateo: Voice and Percussion
Alexis Monvelino: Guitar

@ RIO II GALLERY

583 Riverside Dr. 7th Floor, corner of 135th St.NYC

 These pictures represent the musical folklore and the traditions in the popular religion celebrations. This research took place in the south west of the country. These pictures were taken in altars and celebrations to the Holy Spirit, Saint Benito and St. John The Baptist. The music played was Comarca, Jucusion, Mangulina, Carabine and Salves. The vibrant energy of the Dominican culture is evident in the bright colors and intensity of the people.

Photographs: Karol Gonzalez