Definition of Meringue (chloric and lounge)

East gender musical of Dominican origin is oriented to the dance. In this sense, it can be said that it is the national dance of the Dominicans.

Historical origin and basic choreography

There is no single version of its remote origins. Some historians affirm that it arose from the Creole melodies of the 19th century related to the military triumphs of the Dominicans over the Haitians. It is also claimed that the slaves who worked in the beet fields were the first to dance to the new rhythm.

According to other versions, it comes from the music Cuban. It is also stated that it comes from a dance called URPA, which had a movement concrete called meringue.

In any case, around 1850 this new style of dance became fashionable. By then a debate in the national press and while some defended the purity of the Tomb, others defended the merengue. The moralists of the nineteenth century were very critical, considering it too sensual and provocative.

As for the choreography of the dance, it consists of a

displacement between man and woman. They both go around with all kinds of technical ornaments, also known as vases. There are three fundamental steps: the walk, the body and the fuss. In its beginnings, this dance was eminently popular, especially in rural areas. With the passage of time, the whole of Dominican society adopted it as a national dance.

The folkloric modality

This version is the most typical and is also known as "Perico Riplao". It is a traditional dance in which the cultural elements of the Dominicans are combined: African rhythms, Spanish music and Taino culture. The merengue dance rhythm is accompanied by some instruments: the marimba, the güira and the accordion.

This version is part of the identity Dominican and is very present in all kinds of celebrations, especially weddings and popular festivals.

The salon mode

Like other musical genres and dances, the merengue was introducing changes. In this sense, the new rhythm reached the cities and new instruments were incorporated (first the saxophone and later the piano and wind instruments).

To liven up the show nights, a typical element of the 30s and 40s of the 20th century was introduced, the great orchestra of the Big Band style. Today it is a very popular ballroom dance around the world. In fact, there are specialized academies where beginners try learn the unique movements of the hips or the turns with crossed hands.

At an advanced level, the choreography is more complex and incorporates movements such as the "boy tunnel", the "brave wave" or the "balance".

Photo: Fotolia - sababa66

Themes in Merengue (chloric and salon)