Introduction to Puerto Rican Bomba Percussion, Song, Dance, and Batey

In this course, students are introduced to Puerto Rican Bomba percussion, song, dance, and batey traditions. Students will learn five core rhythm patterns of Bomba (sicá, cuembé, yubá, calindá, and holandés) on at least one instrument (barril, cuá, or maraca) as wells as the basic step, paseo (stroll), figuras, and piquetes (improvised movements used in communicating with the barrel drum) for each rhythm. The historical, cultural, social, and economic conditions under which Bomba traditions emerged will be examined along with the cultural influences on this African and Indigenous (Taíno) Puerto Rican art form. Particular attention will be given to the role of sugar cane plantations in the emergence of Bomba traditions during the times of slavery and its role in resistance, communication, and wellness. Students will demonstrate cross-cultural communication and organizational skills in participating in planning a culminating bombazo (community event where Bomba is played).