Album Notes

Susan Peña and Miguel Govea have performed together for the past twenty years throughout the San Francisco public schools and libraries, often accompanied by their two daughters, Rene and Cecilia. The songs on “Susan Peña’s Favorites” were selected for having proven consistently fun and educational with children of all ages and language backgrounds, due in part to their interactive elements (clapping, call and response, tongue-twister, dance, hand gestures, etc.). The twelve selections consist of seven songs in Spanish, two in English, and three in both Spanish and English. Most are Mexican or American folk traditionals, and some are original versions of old classics. Musical styles include cumbia, huapango, son jarocho, vals, and Appalachian folk. The instrumentalists are Susan Peña on guitar and vihuela, Miguel Govea on accordion, trumpet, violin, vihuela, and guitarrón, and guests Bill Foss on mandolin and Jorge Liceaga on requinto jarocho. The vocals range from the particularly enchanting sister duets by Rene and Cecilia to choral-style three part harmonies performed by all four family members.
The overall tone of the recording is upbeat and fun, inviting listener participation. The CD is available for $14.00 at www.cdbaby.com. For more information about this and other recordings by La Familia Peña-Govea, visit www.miguelgovea.com or contact Susan Peña at susanmpena@sbcglobal.net.