Cuba Takes Second Place at Song Festival in Guatemala

Cuban singer Yosira Caridad Alemán secured second place at the 16th International Song Festival for People with Visual Disabilities in Guatemala, showcasing the powerful connection between art and inclusion.

Performing first the bolero-son classic Lágrimas Negras by composer Miguel Matamoros, the Havana native captivated the audience at Guatemala City’s National Conservatory of Music. She later delivered a moving rendition of Amor Eterno, written by Alberto Aguilera.

The event, organized by the Association of the Blind for Culture and Sports and dedicated to teacher Gisela Gálvez, featured participants from multiple countries. Soleil Victoria Argüello of Paraguay claimed first place, while Guatemala’s Milton Estuardo Ortiz took third.

Speaking to Prensa Latina after the competition, the Cuban representative expressed her happiness for the opportunity and gratitude toward those who believed in her.

Reflecting on her performance, she said she felt at ease doing what she loves, remaining calm yet deeply moved.

“With the first song, I honored my roots and culture,” she explained, “and with the second, I embraced something international, with lyrics of incredible emotional weight that, personally, moved me profoundly.”

Alemán shared that she began singing as a child at a special school for visually impaired students, where music classes were offered. She extended her appreciation to her vocal coaches, methodology specialist Roger for his constant support, and the volunteers who guided her in Guatemala.

Jorge Luis Cabrera, head of the culture department at Cuba’s National Association of the Blind, noted that this marks the island’s 10th participation in the festival, with four first-place wins, two second-place finishes, and one third-place award.

“Every time we’ve attended in person, we’ve earned a prize,” he emphasized, highlighting Cuba’s strong commitment to the event. He added that Cuba’s national network of cultural centers provides instructors who train talented artists.

“We have many artists, some even certified as professionals by the Cuban Music Institute,” Cabrera stated. “Our artistic movement is very strong overall, spanning theater, dance, and more.”