Music and Dance Culture

Since the beginning of time music and dance has been an imperative part of the Dominican culture and its people.

Merengue

Music is a way Dominicans use to express emotions. They play a song based on their mood, especially Merengue-- a type of fast rhythm music that consists of 2/4 beat. In order to produce Merengue, a conjunto typico or a traditional band uses a tambora-- a two-sided drum, also known as a diatonic accordion. Along with that another instrument used to create Merengue music is a guira--a percussion instrument that sounds like a maraca.


Merengue is not just a type of music, but it's also a form of upbeat "fun" dancing. Merengue dancing is a style of partner dancing originated in Dominican Republic. This type of dance is usually danced to Merengue music.

Although Merengue was declared as the national dance in the 1930s, by then dictator Rafael Trujillo, it didn't gain its recognition until the mid-19th century. Prior to this era, Merengue was looked down upon by the upper class citizens, because it was mainly danced by the underpriviledged people in the rural areas of the country.

In the turn of the 20th century, Merengue became highly respected by everyone, regardless of socio-economic status. It was honored more because it started a revolution in ballroom dancing.

Bachata

Bachata is a slow and romantic genre of music that originated in the countryside of Dominican Republic.This style of music was and still is associated with sadness, heartbreak and amarguras or bitterness. Jose Manuel Calderon is credited to be the first to release the first bachata song, "Borracho de Amor" ( "Drunk of Love"). Bachata evolved after the death of Trujillo in the late 50's and early 60's.

It's usually performed or produced using five different instruments: Requinto or lead guitar, rhythm guitar, electric bass guitar, bongos and guira

These types of national genre of music and style of dances are never missed out in a Dominican festival, celebration, party--you name it...if music is involved you are likely to hear Merengue y Bachata.

Merengue and Bachata are not just popular or common in Quisqueya La Bella, it's made itself well known in other Latin countries including Spain.




Music and Dance Culture