This course will take students on a musical journey through various Latin American countries and Spain. Each week, we will explore a different country's musical traditions, history, and culture. Students will listen to music, learn about its origins, and understand how it has shaped the country's cultural identity. We’ll dive into genres such as Flamenco, Salsa, Tango, Mariachi, and Cumbia, among others. The course will include interactive discussions, short readings, and creative projects.

Course Duration:
8 weeks then recycles starting from topic 1
Meeting Time: Once per week, 45 minutes

Weekly Breakdown:

Week of October 28 Topic 1: Spain - The Energy of Flamenco

Musical Focus: Flamenco
Origins in Andalusia, connection to Romani culture, and its emotional depth in expressing emotions.
We’ll listen to Flamenco classics and explore how Flamenco influenced Spanish literature.

Discussion:
The fusion of different cultural influences in Flamenco and its modern-day popularity.

Activity:
Students will discuss the emotions conveyed in Flamenco music.

Week of November 4  Topic 2 : Argentina - The Elegance of Tango

Musical Focus: Tango

From the streets of Buenos Aires to the world stage, Tango is full of drama and emotion.
We’ll learn about how Tango reflects the struggles and joys of early 20th-century Argentine immigrants.

Discussion:

Tango as a social dance and a form of emotional expression. The poetry in Tango lyrics and how it mirrors Argentine society.

Activity:
Students will write a short story or poem inspired by the spirit of Tango.

Week of November 11 Topic 3: Cuba - The Rhythm of Salsa

Musical Focus: Salsa

A vibrant fusion of African and Latin influences, Salsa represents the soul of Cuban music.
We’ll explore the role of Salsa in Cuban history, its links to social movements, and its global spread.

Discussion:

How Salsa has evolved over time, from the streets of Cuba to New York City’s dance halls.

Activity:

Students will create a visual representation of what Salsa music makes them feel.

Week of November 18 Topic 4: Mexico - The Pride of Mariachi

Musical Focus: Mariachi

Mariachi is synonymous with Mexican national pride, representing both rural and urban Mexico through celebratory songs.
We’ll dive into the history of Mariachi and its role in Mexican holidays, festivals, and personal life milestones.

Discussion:

The instruments and structure of Mariachi bands, and how the music reflects Mexican history.

Activity:

Students will write or discuss orally the cultural significance of Mariachi music.

Week of November 25 Topic 5: Colombia - The Joy of Cumbia

Musical Focus: Cumbia

Cumbia’s origins are deeply rooted in Colombia’s indigenous, African, and European cultures. It’s a dance of celebration and joy.
We’ll explore Cumbia’s role in Colombian society and its influence on Latin American music as a whole.

Discussion:
How Cumbia reflects the blending of different cultures in Colombia.

Activity:
Students will create a short video or audio clip sharing their thoughts on Cumbia and what makes it unique.

Week of December 2 Topic 6: Puerto Rico - The Energy of Reggaeton

Musical Focus: Reggaeton

A relatively modern genre, Reggaeton blends Latin rhythms with hip-hop and reggae, symbolizing the voice of Puerto Rican youth.
We’ll look at the rise of Reggaeton and its role in Puerto Rican identity and its influence globally.

Discussion:

How Reggaeton represents cultural pride, rebellion, and change.
Activity:

Students will create a short reflection on the global influence of Reggaeton and its impact on pop culture.

Week of December 9 Topic 7: Brazil - The Beauty of Bossa Nova
Musical Focus: Bossa Nova

Known for its smooth, jazzy rhythms, Bossa Nova brings together elements of Samba and Jazz.
We’ll explore the history of Bossa Nova, its rise in Rio de Janeiro, and how it represents Brazilian sophistication and cool.

Discussion:

How Bossa Nova became a global sensation.
Activity:
Students will create a playlist of Bossa Nova tracks and explain how the music reflects the relaxed, breezy nature of Brazilian beach culture.

Week of December 16 Topic 8: Peru - The Heritage of Andean Music
Musical Focus: Andean Music

Andean music, characterized by its use of traditional instruments like the panpipes, reflects Peru’s indigenous heritage. We'll look at how Andean music has been preserved and modernized, connecting ancient traditions with contemporary life.

Discussion:

The importance of preserving cultural traditions in a modern world and the symbolism found in Andean music.

Activity:

Students will create a short presentation on a specific traditional instrument from Andean music, explaining its cultural significance.