What’s a Polyrhythmic Beat? Why’s it important?
Polyrhythmic beats from the African slave trade refer to the complex, layered rhythms that were brought to the Americas by enslaved Africans. These rhythms are the product of the diverse musical traditions that existed across Africa, which were brought together during the slave trade and combined with European and indigenous American musical influences. African polyrhythms […]
Cradle of Candombe: Palermo and Barrio Sur
Candombe is an important part of the cultural heritage of Montevideo, Uruguay, and it is often played and celebrated in several neighborhoods throughout the city. Here are some of the most well-known neighborhoods where candombe is played: Overall, candombe is a deeply rooted and celebrated part of the cultural heritage of Montevideo, and there are […]
How do they warm Candombe drums?
How do they warm the drums? Candombe drumming involves playing on traditional drums, which are typically made of wood and animal skin. To get the best sound and performance from the drums, it’s important to warm them up before playing. Here are some ways that candombe drummers warm up their drums: Overall, there are several […]
Candombe and Tango are Interrelated
Candombe and tango are two distinct music styles with different origins, but they have had an important and complex relationship throughout their history in Argentina and Uruguay. Candombe is a traditional Afro-Uruguayan music style that originated in the 19th century in Montevideo, Uruguay, and is characterized by its complex rhythms and African influences. On the […]
Polyrhythmic Candombe’s 3 Drums & Rhythms
Candombe is a traditional Afro-Uruguayan music style that is characterized by its complex rhythms and polyrhythmic structure. The rhythms of candombe are played on three types of drums: the chico, repique, and piano drums, each of which plays a distinct role in the ensemble. The basic rhythm of candombe is known as the “llamada” (which […]
Learning Candombe in 6 Steps
The process of learning candombe typically involves six steps: Candombe drummers deeply value and understand the rhythms and cultural significance of the music. Preparation involves both individual practice and group coordination to ensure a successful performance.