The Dominican Republic is a tropical country in the Greater Antilles. It is bordered by beaches that are always crowded with people. On the spot, parties are held every evening and can last until dawn. The typical music of the country is of the cadenced kind and this one evolves with time. Marked by counted movements with the help of footsteps, the traditional Dominican dances are more and more widespread and are practiced today in several foreign countries.
Salsa
Salsa is translated as "sauce" in the Dominican Republic. This popular dance originated during the colonial period. Specifically, during the slavery of Africans by the Spaniards. In the 60s, Salsa was excessively practiced in all America including Cuba, Panama, Venezuela, Colombia, and other countries. It is identified as choreography with erotic and supple movements at the hip. There are several types of salsa such as salsa romantica, salsa dura, and salsa timba. In fact, to produce music for salsa, the tempo requires percussion instruments, congas, and claves.
Bachata
In the past, bachata was not as sensual as it is today. In fact, this dance is classified as one of the intangible cultural heritage of the Dominican Republic. This dance rhythm is the result of the fusion of several choreographies, including the African kompa and the cha-cha-cha. Also, since the year 1980, the Bachata has quickly become famous thanks to the arrival of foreigners who have adopted and modernized it. In addition, sub-genres have appeared. These last ones were also noticed after this revival, along with the tecnoamargue and the pink bachata. The musical tools used for Bachata are the bass, the bongo, and the drums.
Merengue
The merengue was created in 1840. It is a typical Caribbean dance and musical genre. With guira, banduria, percussion, accordion, and guitars, it is also one of the cultural heritage of the Dominican Republic. Indeed, the "upa habanera" is its distant ancestor. With the expansion of the salsa and the various instruments used in this dance, the Merengue was inspired by this change. Because on its side, the Merengue engages other musical devices, such as the synthesizer, electric guitar, saxophones, and trombones. In fact, the dance has continued to grow with the creation of a new variety called "electronic merengue", which was first seen in 2004.