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The Three Driving Powers In Cuban Music: A Comprehensive Guide

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The three driving powers in Cuban music

by Mark S. Reinhart

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	4942 KB
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	38 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

Cuban music is a vibrant and complex blend of African, Spanish, and European influences. This unique musical genre has captivated audiences worldwide and has been an integral part of Cuban culture for centuries.

There are three main driving powers that have shaped the development of Cuban music: the African diaspora, the Spanish colonial period, and the European influence. Each of these influences has contributed to the unique sound and style of Cuban music.

The African Diaspora

The African diaspora is one of the most important factors that has influenced the development of Cuban music. Beginning in the 16th century, millions of Africans were forcibly brought to Cuba as slaves. These Africans brought with them their own musical traditions, which had a profound impact on the development of Cuban music.

African music is characterized by its use of polyrhythms, call-and-response vocals, and a strong emphasis on percussion. These elements can be heard in many Cuban musical genres, including salsa, rumba, and son.

African Music The Three Driving Powers In Cuban Music

The Spanish Colonial Period

The Spanish colonial period also had a significant impact on the development of Cuban music. During this period, which lasted from the 16th to the 19th centuries, Cuba was a colony of Spain. This led to a strong influence of Spanish music on Cuban music.

Spanish music is characterized by its use of melody, harmony, and a strong emphasis on the guitar. These elements can be heard in many Cuban musical genres, including the bolero, the guajira, and the habanera.

Spanish Music The Three Driving Powers In Cuban Music — Spanish music has also had a significant impact on the development of Cuban music.

The European Influence

The European influence on Cuban music began in the 19th century, when Cuba became increasingly open to European trade and culture. This led to an influx of European musical influences, including classical music, opera, and jazz.

European music has had a significant impact on the development of Cuban music, particularly in the realm of harmony and instrumentation. Many Cuban musical genres, including the danzón, the cha-cha-chá, and the mambo, show the influence of European music.

European Music The Three Driving Powers In Cuban Music

The three driving powers of the African diaspora, the Spanish colonial period, and the European influence have all played a vital role in the development of Cuban music. These influences have combined to create a unique and vibrant musical genre that has captivated audiences worldwide.

If you are interested in learning more about Cuban music, I highly recommend reading the book "The Three Driving Powers In Cuban Music" by John Storm Roberts. This book provides a comprehensive overview of the history and development of Cuban music.

The three driving powers in Cuban music

by Mark S. Reinhart

4.6 out of 5