Those serious about learning Spanish should make music part of their daily practice. Music can help reinforce what you learn as well as being fun to listen to!
Musical folk styles originating in Spain’s pre-Islamic history (known as Mozarabic chant) survived until Christian reconquest and Gregorian chant became dominant within churches.
Merengue
Merengue is an infectious rhythm influenced by African, European and Central American elements and features. Originally from Dominican Republic where it forms part of national culture and identity. Also used as the basis for various other genres like bachata, Colombian vallenato, Mexican rancheras and North American pop music. Merengue traditionally consists of two parts called primera parte and segunda parte or jaleo; wherein first part generally features straight rhythm while second one often incorporates more intricate structures with more complex structures with more complex structures improvisations improvisations.
Early merengue was distinguished by strings (guitars, tres, cuatro and quinto) to which were added tambora, guira and marimba bass accompaniments. Later the accordion took over from strings as its stabbing staccato phrases became the definitive merengue sound; its rural accordion however initially caused hostility from high society but only after Rafael Leonidas Trujillo assumed power did they support this new dance craze.
Salsa
Salsa is a Latin music genre that draws upon various styles from diverse cultures to form its signature musical and dance form. Distinguished by an energetic rhythm, fast pace, and vibrant energy; Salsa dancers move with quick steps and fluid turns, creating playful yet passionate interactions between partners.
Salsa music and dance take their name from its Spanish translation: salsa (sauce). Its creators integrated elements from other styles such as son montuno, guaracha, cha-cha-cha and mambo into this genre. Bass guitar is most common instrument in salsa music while bongos and timbales may also be heard often; its basis – called clave rhythm – provides both structure and a dancing foundation; each bar of which contains three beats followed by one beat (commonly known as 1-2-3).
New York style salsa dancers typically employ linear patterns with many turn patterns based on cross body lead variations. This form of salsa often incorporates jazzy elements such as solo dancers breaking off for short “shines”.
Pachanga
Pachanga, created in Cuba during the 1950s, eventually reached widespread popularity after Cuban immigrants brought it over to America.
Pachanga dance is distinguished by a smooth and bouncy movement characterized by knee bending and straightening, slides and twists, set to hard jazzier music than typical salsa; typically featuring flute and violin instrumentation as well as extra beats and clanging cowbells for added flare.
Pachanga is taught all over the world at various salsa events and congresses, providing dancers with an invaluable addition to their salsa dance repertoire – particularly handy when used during shine performances!
Corrido
Corridos are narrative songs which originated along the Mexico-Texas border during the 19th century. Based on Spanish romance traditions and history, this oral folk history form usually involves heroic heroism or death for honor as subjects for its songs; or celebrates notable figures.
Corridos can be written either based on true events from history or fiction, but usually have one of two opening lines: permiso (permission) or despedida (farewell). They usually follow a predicable structure: first stanza establishes theme; subsequent ones continue the tale.
Corridos were traditionally written with 20-30 stanzas of rich details to vividly narrate an event; but with the advent of audio recording, songs have been pared back so they could fit on one side of a record record.