Merengue, the national music of the Dominican Republic, was derived from a Cuban form of mucic called UPA, which came to Santo Domingo via Puerto Rico in the mid 19th century. In the Dominican Republic, Merengue experienced something of a golden age during the dictatorship of Rafael Trujillo, who held power from the 1930s until his assassination in 1961. Trujillo promoted the music as a symbol of national expression and culture. He constrained its traditional role as a music of social commentary but provided a forum for the musicians in the dancehalls. Larger merengue orchestras were developed, with piano and brass to cater these new urban audiences. Although Merengue has undergone many changes over the years, the rhythm has changed very little, and still remains unmistakable. | Merengue |
