Soprano Betty Garces hits a high note at Colombia’s embassy in DC

Americas Now

This week’s “Urban Voice” on Americas Now grew up in the Colombian port city of Buenaventura listening to Caribbean rhythms. Today, it is a more classical form of music for which she is becoming internationally known.

Colombia is proudly called the “land of a thousand rhythms” and its music reflects the country’s diverse people and regions. It’s known for its Caribbean sounds like Cumbia, Vallenato and Champeta.  However, it’s not known for Opera. Colombian Betty Garces is altering that image, singing her way around the world and into people’s hearts.

Americas Now caught up with this soul-stirring soprano at the Embassy of Colombia in Washington, D.C.  

Garces sings alongside pianist Alejandro Roca, giving an enchanting performance to a captivated audience.

Watch this week’s “Urban Voices” segment and find out why Betty’s exquisite voice was almost never heard.