The Afro-Cuban Folkloric Musical Tradition

This book, (which includes 95 tracks of examples as mp3 files), is the culmination of over twenty years of intensive study and research of all of the folkloric musical practice of Cuba. 

The author is not an outside observer, but a veteran percussionist with family ties and cultural bonds to Cuba, dedicated to the study of the island's musical traditions at the source, and to sharing his knowledge with clarity, precision, and insight. The book is meant primarily for serious study by percussionists, but is also full of historical background. 

It covers the rhythmic and technical details of this music with unmatched thoroughness, and puts the music in its historical, cultural, and spiritual context, deepening the experience for all users of this wonderful resource, from gigging musician to ethnomusicologist to interested listener.

Table of Contents

Forward by Olavo Alen Rodriguez vi

Introduction 1

Notation Key 2

1. CUBA - A BRIEF SOCIAL HISTORY 3

2. YORUBA

The Yoruba / Bata 4

Bembe 9

Güiro 13

lyesa 16

3. BANTU/CONGOLESE

Makuta 19

Palo 22

Yuka 25

4. DAHOMEY

Dahomey 28

Arara 31

Nago 34

Vodu 36

Tumba Francesa 39

Eliance 46

Gaga 49

5. CARABALI

Abakua 52

6. CONGA

Conga de Comparsa / Conga Habanera / Conga Oriental 56

7. THE RUMBA CYCLE

Rumba/Yambü 65

Guaguanco 68

Columbia 74

Quinto 78

8. BEYOND THE TRADITION 82

Glossary 85

Bibliography 88

Recommended Listening 89