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¡Colombia es un baile!

Colombia is a very diverse country in which music is deeply embedded in the culture and the traditions. As a result of the diversification of rhythms, sounds, and influences, Colombian dances have considerable
variations. From one region to another, and taking into account different aspects such as weather conditions, African heritage, proximity to the Pacific Ocean or the Caribbean Sea, and the shared traditions and customs with other countries, Colombian dance exemplifies a wide variety of movements, performances, and cultural representations.

From the Cumbias, Porros, and Vallenatos, to Joropos, Bambucos, and Salsa, all the Colombian types of dances are, without any doubt, a faithful portrayal of our folklore and cultural richness. Since we begin primary school we are encouraged to learn the different types of dances in our country. Almost every school has a dance group or dance company committed to preserving the traditional and most emblematic dances of our country. From my point of view, it is truly hard to try to explain dance through words; as I stated above, dance implies movements, gestures and dynamism. Nonetheless, I will attempt to use images that allow you to have a better perspective of some of our more representative dances.

Cumbia Colombiana: This is one of the most cherished Colombian dances. La Cumbia was born in the Colombian Caribbean Cost and its dance moves represent seduction and flirtation.

Picture taken from: http://lavariedaddedanzasenelmundo.blogspot.com/

El Mapalé: This type of music has been frequently described as “rhythm frenzy.” It has been largely influenced by Africa and its movements are fast and accelerated.

Picture taken from: http://www.movimiento.org/photo/el-mapale

El Bambuco: This is one of the most recognized traditional Colombian rhythms. It was born in the Colombian Andes and, eventually, every region of the country has contributed to make this dance one of the most outstanding cultural representations of our folklore.

Picture taken from: http://www.terra.com.co/reinado_bambuco/galerias/gal173220-noche-de-eleccion-y-coronacion-de-la-reina-nacional-del-bambuco.htm

La Salsa: Despite the fact that La Salsa is not an original Colombian rhythm, it has a major influence in our popular culture. Cali, one of the most important cities in the country, is also known as the “Capital Mundial de la Salsa” (World’s Salsa Capital).

Picture taken from: http://salsacultura.blogspot.com/2012/08/salsa-calena.html

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