Puerto Rican plena developed at the end of the 20th century in working class neighborhoods around the coast of the island. Like other dance genres of the region and period, plena synthesized European, Indigenous, and West African elements that came into dialogue through interactions between locals and immigrants. One distinction of historic significance that sets plena apart from other genres of Puerto Rican popular dance music is its claim as the first form of working–class music to become popular among all social classes, attract international attention, and become commercialized. This lesson explores the origins of plena music on the island of Puerto Rico, the genre’s popularization in diasporic communities, and its enduring cultural importance.

Lesson Paths & Learning Objectives

1. What is Plena?

   • Explain why plena is considered "working-class" music.
   • Identify several instruments used in performances of plena music.
   • Identify Indigenous, West African, and European influences in plena.
   • 25+ minutes

2. People and Plena on the Move

   • Identify and describe how and when plena became a form of professional and commercial music.
   • Describe some of the changes musicians made when plena started to be performed outside of Puerto Rico (the diaspora).
   • Perform plena music, with and without a recording.
   • Within specific guidelines, write and perform a plena chorus.
   • 30+ minutes

3. Plena: Culture and Identity

   • Explain why plena is sometimes called "the people’s newspaper".
   • Share a personal definition of the term "cultural identity".
   • Describe how people use plena to express their Puerto Rican cultural identity, both on the island and in the diaspora.
   • 25+ minutes