In this lesson, we explore the historical development and musical elements of three styles of Puerto Rican dance music that have become powerful national symbols and iconic expressions of pan-Latin American cultural production: danza, salsa, and reggaeton. These traditions share a history of condemnation by the elites at the onset of their practice, but due to the exemplary resilience shown by practitioners, they have gained broad acceptance locally and internationally. After learning about the historical and social significance of danza (a genre that developed in Puerto Rico in the mid-1800s and became a symbol of the movement for independence from Spain), students will make music "in the style of" salsa. Finally, they will experience the infectious dem bow rhythm—the cornerstone of the musical genre we now know as reggaeton.

Lesson Paths & Learning Objectives

1. Danza: Early Puerto Rican Dance Music

   • Describe the history, development, and social significance of danza in Puerto Rico.
   • Identify the defining musical characteristics of danza music.
   • Explain the role danza music plays in Puerto Rican fiestas, such as Carnival.
   • 30+ minutes

2. Salsa: A Transnational Phenomenon

   • Describe the history, development, and influences of salsa.
   • Demonstrate the important musical characteristics of salsa.
   • Identify several important salsa musicians.
   • 30+ minutes

3. The Reggaeton Revolution

   • Describe the history, development, and influences of reggaeton.
   • Identify several important reggaeton MCs.
   • Explain how reggaeton has served as a form of activism.
   • 30+ minutes