Microblog

Latin-American Music

Latin-American music is an amalgamation of American, African and European influences from when Africans were transported to the Americas, as well as the Portuguese and Spanish colonisation of parts of South America and the Caribbean. Music of Latin-America most commonly refers to the music of the Spanish and Portuguese-speaking areas of Latin-America and, thus, it is most commonly performed in those languages. Due to the enormous range of influences, the music is rich and diverse. Following the Portuguese and Spanish colonisation, various folk styles emerged, drawing on elements from indigenous cultures. 

Going into the 20th century, trends in art music pushed for a new sense of national identity. Revueltas incorporated elements of Mexican folk tradition into his orchestral writing, in Cuba there was a resurgence of Afro-Cuban culture, and Alberto Williams wrote works that were taking direct influence from the Argentinian gauchos. Latin-American music is hard to typify due to the rich range of styles however some indigenous instruments are commonly used (maracas, guiro, bongos, pan pipes, steel drums), as well as culturally imported instruments (guitar, piano, bass, banjo, trumpet). Latin-American music is commonly dominated by rhythmic features and so syncopation and complex rhythms can often be heard. The style includes various famous dance styles; tango, salsa, samba, son and bossa nova are all part of the Latin-American tradition.

Notable artists:

Guillermo Portabales

Pérez Prado

Raquel Meller

Bobby Capó

If you want to commission your own music in this style, or would like more information or help, please contact us.

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