Salsa

Salsa Music

Origins and Development

• Salsa music originated in the mid-20th century in Cuba and Puerto Rico, it’s a fusion of African, European, and indigenous Caribbean influences.
• Clave rhythm, which is a complex rhythm pattern that provides the foundation for Salsa songs, is a distinctive trait in Salsa music.

Instruments

• Congas, bongos, and timbales are the key percussion instruments in salsa music.
• Trumpets, trombones, and sometimes saxophones, constitute the main brass instruments.
• Piano and bass guitar offer harmonic support.
• The vocals often consist of a lead singer and a chorus, or coro, with frequent use of call and response.

Musical Structure

• Salsa pieces primarily follow a verse-chorus structure, with frequent instrumental solos.
• The melody frequently incorporates syncopation, and the harmony typically uses a lot of seventh chords.
• Instrumental montunos, where a repeated pattern is played over the clave rhythm, are a common feature.

Performance and Dance

• Performance venues range from nightclubs to large festivals. Salsa dancing is a key aspect of performances.
• The dance style that goes along with salsa music is characterised by quick steps, spins, and body isolation, with a strong emphasis on rhythm.

Socio-Cultural Significance

• Salsa has played an important role in the cultural identity of many Latin American communities, particularly those in Cuba and Puerto Rico.
• It’s also regarded as a symbol of resistance and social commentary due its origins and lyrics that often discuss social issues.