
Cuban Music - Jazz Cubano, Timba, Bolero, Danzón and Son
Cuban Music - Jazz Cubano, Timba, Bolero, Danzón and Son
Cuba is home to some of the most popular musical genres in the world. Cuban music is a mix of African and Spanish musical styles. These creolized styles have seen success and popularity in different parts of the
world and continues to grow more popular and influential by the day.
Cuban music has its origins in popular musical styles from Africa and Europe. When the first settlers arrived in Cuba, they brought with them the music of their homelands. These settlers sowed the seeds of what would eventually become the most popular form of world music. Other countries that contributed to forging Cuban music trends are France, Puerto Rico and the United States of America.
The following musical styles are considered as some of the most important sub-genres of Cuban Music:
1. Bolero - This is a slow and melodic romantic ballad.
2. Son – considered as the origin of modern Salsa, Son is a popular form of music mainly used as an accompaniment for dances.
3. Cha-cha – a musical style derived from the traditional danzón-mambo.
4. Danzón – a musical style that gained popularity in the 19th century, the danzón is said to be the origin of mambo.
5. Rumba – this style is characterized by the use of call-and response singing and rhythmic drumming.
6. Jazz Cubano – a Cuban form of Jazz music.
7. Conga – a popular style of carnival music.
8. Timba – described as salsa on steroids, Timba is one of the more recent musical styles to come out of Cuba.
These musical styles are but a small sampling of Cuban Music as there are several variations on these genres that are highly popular as well. Cuban music is both extensive and varied and it will take a lifetime to experience it in its entirety.
Extra information: As well as visiting the island for music, there are some excellent places for diving in Cuba. Learn about divign holidays in Cuba. If you love dance learn about Belly Dance lessons online including for Cuba - experience the thrill of dance and self expression.

