Proprietors Vicente and Cristina Barreiro, who have owned the store the longest--since 1966--pride themselves on offering customers an extensive selection of all Latin music genres, plus musical instruments, rare collectibles, and that all-important personal touch, so sadly lacking these days.

They provide a wealth of information to those in search of particular recordings--so many times over the years, I’ve advised listeners trying to track down obscure artists and albums, “Call Vicente at Casa Latina. If he can’t help you, I don’t know who can!”

And for musicians releasing productions, especially with the configuration of the industry these days, when most have to be on top of distribution and sales themselves, placing product in Casa Latina is a
must--music aficionados make a beeline for East 116th Street when they hear something new on the airwaves that they like.

I’ve always said that every time I walk in and revel in the shop’s “heart of El Barrio” ambiance,  I find myself wanting “one of everything!” In addition to CDs, DVDs, videos, books and magazines, Casa Latina sells guitars and a full line of percussion instruments, like congas, timbales, maracas, cowbells, claves, and guiro, plus strings, straps and other accessories, and even, for those of us who will never stop loving vinyl, phonograph needles.

The Barreiros also stock some unique musical and culturally themed items, including jackets, watches, conga covers, key chains, pins, earrings, and necklaces with realistically detailed charms--miniature replicas of congas, bongos, tambourines, and cowbells.

 “The people say, if you don’t find it here, you won’t find it anyplace,” says Vicente. “And if we don’t have it, we try to get it!”

Casa Latina Music Shop is located at 151 E. 116th St., in Manhattan. You can visit them online, at: www.casalatinamusic.com.

And you can always call Vicente at 212-427-6062 to ask him about that Arsenio Rodriguez song you’ve been looking for forever. Or you can call or stop by just to find out what''s hot!                                                            

Vicki Solá, host/producer Que Viva La Música, 89.1 WFDU-FM