Colombia: Cumbia

Cumbia is one of the most popular musics from Colombia. Cumbia also consists of a dance that goes with its music. It's considered the national dance and represents the heritage of Colombia. It originated as a courtship dance practiced by the indigenous people of Colombia. Throughout the years, it became influenced by African and European characteristics.

Cumbia often consists of one of two ensembles; a cumbia or gaita ensemble. A cumbia ensemble consists of five instruments; the millet cane or pito (type of clarinet), tambor mayor (hand drum), llamador (drum), the bombo (two-headed drum), and a rattle. The gaita ensemble has two gaitas (duct flutes), tambor mayor, llamador, and a rattle.

Cumbia is usually danced by couples and is characterized by dancing in circles. The women dance in shuffled steps (from slaves dancing with shackled legs) and the men zig-zag around her. Cumbia itself is a simple and straightforward dance with minimal movement. Traditionally, bundles of candles were held by the dancers. Today, traditional cumbia is only performed at carnivals or festivals.

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