'Musica of My Heart' exhibit at Gail Borden library

ELGIN - An exhibit focusing on the histories of Latin American music genres is on display through September 28 at Gail Borden Public Library, 270 N. Grove Ave., Elgin.

The opening celebration for "Musica of My Heart" will take place from 1 to 5 p.m. Saturday, June 20 in the Meadows Community Rooms and Elgin Room at the main library.

The opening event will feature live music, free Latin dance lessons and children's crafts.

The music of Latin America is a complicated mixture of influences from a variety of races, religions, cultures and traditions from pre-Columbian times to the present. It comes from dozens of countries - from Mexico to Cuba, from the Caribbean islands to South America - and is as diverse as the lands and people of Latin America. The music of Latin America moves the hearts of Latinos who call the United States "home" as well as fans from around the world.

"Musica of My Heart" explores some of the most popular genres of Latin American music, such as norteña, bolero, Tejano, merengue and cumbia, with exciting displays, instruments, costumes, instructions for popular dance steps, photo ops with Latin American music star cutouts, and a quiz with weekly drawings for prizes.

For details, visit www.gailborden.info or call (847) 742-2411.