“We Are the Music” : Unveiling the Intimate Symphony of Guillermo Rosabal-Coto’s Cinematic Journey
In the heart of Costa Rica, a male filmmaker, Guillermo Rosabal-Coto, unveils a cinematic masterpiece that delves into the profound relationship between individuals and the transformative power of music. His groundbreaking film, “We Are the Music,” is a testament to the personal, cultural, and societal dimensions of musicking, a concept pioneered by New Zealand musician and cultural critic Christopher Small.
- Exploring the Depths of Personal Musicking
“How is your personal relationship to music?” Rosabal-Coto responds by borrowing three infinitive verbs from Christopher Small: exploring, affirming, and celebrating. He views music as an intimate, lived experience, channeling strength and creativity through engagement. The film captures the essence of musicking as a profound, internal connection that resonates with freedom, empowerment, resilience, and self-care.
- Dedication to a Mentor
The dedication of the film to Christopher Small unfolds a poignant narrative. Small, a revolutionary thinker on musicking, mentored Rosabal-Coto during his doctoral studies. Their encounters, though limited by time, left a lasting impact on the filmmaker. Small’s influence is visible in the film, and the dedication becomes a posthumous homage to a generous and visionary mentor.
- Discovering Identity in Music
The filmmaker poses his own question: “Do you know who you are in music?” Rosabal-Coto, inspired by years of research, discovered his musical identity through stories of life-long learning from students and colleagues. The question serves as a thread connecting his personal journey with the universal exploration of musical identity.
- Humor and Humility in Cinematic Storytelling
The inclusion of the filmmaker as a vulnerable character adds a layer of authenticity to the film, exposing how institutional education can impact personal musicking. Rosabal-Coto’s choice to feature Mr. Heriberto Moya-Chaves, a farmer who finds joy through music, adds richness to the narrative. The challenges of shooting, especially the dance scene, highlight the commitment and spontaneity of real-life characters.
- The Inspiration Behind Filmmaking
From childhood fascination to a desire for storytelling, Rosabal-Coto’s journey into filmmaking is rooted in the power of imagination. “We Are the Music” becomes a culmination of his passion for sharing stories in expressive ways, a departure from traditional academic mediums.
- Balancing Soundtrack and Narrative
Rosabal-Coto emphasizes the importance of treating the soundtrack as integral to the project, not just an accompaniment. Collaborating with composers and musicians, he ensures a balance between visuals and sound, creating a collaborative work that enhances the film’s emotional impact.
- Impacting Audiences Universally
Originally conceived for university teaching, the film’s universal message transcends academia. Rosabal-Coto hopes audiences recognize the richness, power, and legitimacy of their musicking experiences, echoing Christopher Small’s ideals.
- Collaboration in Cinematic Creation
Despite lacking formal education in filmmaking, Rosabal-Coto’s collaborative approach involves young professionals and students who contribute to the project’s success. Each member of the crew brings expertise, fostering a dynamic exchange of ideas.
- Overcoming Challenges Creatively
The production of “We Are the Music” faced no major obstacles, concluding just before the COVID-19 lockdown. Rosabal-Coto’s creative process remained uninterrupted, allowing the film to convey its powerful message without hindrance.
- Festival Recognition and Career Impact
The film’s success on the international festival circuit, earning several awards, has fueled Rosabal-Coto’s motivation for future projects. The recognition affirms the impact of his work, encouraging him to explore content that challenges societal norms and fosters awareness.
In the cinematic symphony of “We Are the Music,” Guillermo Rosabal-Coto orchestrates a narrative that transcends borders, inviting audiences to explore, affirm, and celebrate the transformative power of music in their own lives.
Article written by
Maria Vanova
