Lesson 1 uses the idea of fiesta to introduce students to the exciting musical forms and unique performance styles that have developed in Puerto Rico. In Puerto Rican culture, fiestas are central to social and communal life, in both religious and secular ways. These events cut across geographical boundaries, race, ethnicity, and generations and are celebrated year-round, providing continuity to long-held traditions and encouraging the creation of new ones. As students progress through this lesson they will actively engage with the music that fills the air at these special events—and will begin to understand how fiestas in Puerto Rico and its diaspora celebrate culture, build community, and foster a collective Puerto Rican identity.

Lesson Paths & Learning Objectives

1. Fiesta in Puerto Rico!

   • Identify the three basic elements common to most Puerto Rican fiestas.
   • Explain why fiestas are so important for communities and participants in Puerto Rico.
   • 20+ minutes

2. Sounds of Puerto Rican Fiesta

   • Identify three musical genres that you might hear at a Puerto Rican fiesta.
   • Identify three distinct cultural influences that are present in Puerto Rican fiesta music.
   • 20+ minutes

3. Puerto Rican Fiesta and Identity

   • Provide a personal definition of the term "collective identity".
   • Identify some key aspects of Puerto Rican identity.
   • Describe how fiestas help people discover, celebrate, and express their Puerto Rican identities.
   • Describe how recurring celebrations in your life connect to your personal and collective identities.
   • 20+ minutes