What did Ecuador sound like thousands of years ago?
On Friday, September 25, idiomARTE hosts the launch of Vientos Ecuatoriales, a new book by archaeomusicologist Esteban Valdivia exploring the ancient sound world of Ecuador’s pre-Columbian cultures.
Through images, research, and recordings, Valdivia will introduce us to the aerophones, whistles, ceramic instruments, and other sound objects created by cultures that inhabited what is now Ecuador.
The evening continues with a live concert by Esteban Valdivia and Matías Ortolá, bringing these ancient sounds to life.
Books will be available for purchase, and Esteban will be signing copies.
Did you know that untreated hearing loss is a major modifiable risk factor for cognitive decline and dementia?
When hearing becomes difficult, the brain works harder to understand sounds and speech. This extra effort can reduce the brain’s ability to focus on memory, thinking, and social engagement. Untreated hearing loss also increases risks of isolation, loneliness, and reduced cognitive stimulation, all linked to Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias.
Early detection and proper hearing care can make a difference. Regular hearing evaluations and hearing aids help you stay connected to conversations, family, friends, and the world around you, supporting both hearing and brain health.
Take action today:
• Protect your hearing
• Protect your brain
• Schedule your FREE hearing test (audiometry) at GAES Ordóñez Lasso in Cuenca
Call or WhatsApp: 098 033 9934 to book your complimentary appointment. Address: Av. Ordoñez lasso y Calle de los Claveles – next to Banco Pichincha.
Hear better. Stay connected. Support your cognitive health.
Ana Luisa Spanish Classes. Master the language and live the culture. October 12th
We are thrilled to announce that our next session is just around the corner! Whether you are a total beginner or looking to polish your fluency, we have a spot for you.
• Term Duration: October 12th – November 20th
Our Programs: • Regular Courses: Comprehensive levels focusing on grammar, vocabulary, and reading. • Special Conversation Courses: Dynamic, high-energy sessions designed to get you speaking confidently in real-world situations. • Online Tutoring Classes: 1:1 Packages start at a minimum of 10 personalized hours for maximum impact.
Oral Approach focuses on: • Storytelling and Comprehensible Input: Acquire the language naturally through narrative. • Real-Life Communication: we prioritize “meaningful repetition” so the words stay with you.
Small Class Sizes: Ensuring you get the personalized attention you deserve. Resource-Rich Learning: we use a variety of additional tools designed to help with meaningful repetition, ensuring the structures stick. Building Your Base: we focus on the essential structures you need to construct a solid foundation for clear, effective oral communication.
Schedule: Beginner 1: Mondays and Thursdays 10:30 AM – noon Beginner 2: Tuesdays and Fridays 10:30 AM – noon Beginner 3: Mondays and Wednesdays 9 – 10:30 AM Intermediate 1: Mondays and Thursdays noon – 1:30 PM Intermediate 2: Wednesdays 10:30 AM – noon and Fridays 9-10:30 AM Intermediate 3: Tuesdays and Fridays noon – 1:30 PM Advance Grammar: Mondays 1:30 – 3 PM and Wednesdays noon – 1:30 PM
Program Highlights: • Levels offered: Beginner, Intermediate, and Advanced (with sub-levels for accurate placement) • Format: 18 hours of instruction over 6 weeks • Schedule: Classes meet twice per week for 1.5 hours • Materials: Storybooks and handouts are included Cost: $110
Special conversation courses An ongoing journey to fluency—not just a one-time class!
Three Levels Available: Basic, Intermediate, and Advanced.
Take Them as Often as you Want: Since every single session features unique topics, you can repeat the course as many times as you like without ever repeating a lesson.
Always Fresh and Current: Our curriculum is continuously updated based on real-world events and current news.
Level-Specific Grammar: we introduce and practice communication structures tailored specifically to your level.
What you Will Gain: you will learn about the city, engage in cultural debates, and build true speaking confidence.
• Beginner Conversation (Cultural Survival and Confidence): Tuesdays and Thursdays 1:30 – 3 PM • Intermediate Conversation (Opinions, Narratives and Debates): Wednesdays and Fridays 1:30 – 3 PM • Advanced Conversation (Latin America: Beyond the Headlines): Critical thinking, local idioms, and language nuances. Tuesdays and Thursdays 9 – 10:30 AM
• Content
• Guided and free conversation
• Guided storytelling and personal narratives
• Grammar review through speaking activities
• Role-plays and simulations
• Error correction during communication
• Cultural comparison and discussion
• Listening and speaking activities
Optional Activities Every class session we have optional cultural lectures with local artisans, artists, archaeologists, and other people with knowledge of the cultural legacy and natural wealth of the country.
Cost: $12 – $40 (These fees go directly to the locals that provide these tours)
Cultural Activity: November 17th, 3 PM. Traditional Christmas Route: Customs, Traditions, and Legends Student trip: Saturday, November 21st: Trip to a rural community and celebrating Christmas.
