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History of Bachata:
A Rich and Deep History
Throughout the ages, one thing that
has always remained a constant throughout all civilizations is the art
of dancing. Whether it's the ritualistic dancing of warriors and witch
doctors around tribal fires, or the elegant medieval posturing between
the upper classes, dance has acted as both a release valve from everyday
pressure and a bolstering encouragement to better days, regardless of
country or creed. Today, that tradition has carried through with the
various music of the world, especially in South America. Part of that
tradition is the music of Bachata, originating in the Dominican
Republic, which has long been associated with the uplifting and
optimistic feelings that both music and dance can bring.
Although Latin American music has a rich and varied history, the
Cuban-derived Bachata has actually only been around since the early
'sixties, yet its traditions go back further than that and can be traced
to the wonderful guitar tales of the famed Mariachi's of Mexico
(although some observers also lay claim to Bachata having some roots in
early Italian music). Using the guitar to relate the singer's stories of
love, heartbreak and failed romance, its literal meaning is "musica de
amargue", or music of bitterness. Although early Bachata originated from
the likes of house servants who would unwind at the end of the day with
a guitar and a song, today's variation is a slightly different beast.
Instead of the more traditional acoustic guitar, amplifiers are used
with electric instruments and this is combined with a more accessible
and up-tempo feel to the music, although the bittersweet subject matter
remains. There have been many discussions as to why this change came
about – many observers of Bachata suggest that it's just the natural
progression for music that transposes itself between generations and
countries, whereas others are a little more cynical and blame English
band The Beatles for adding a more commercial slant to it with their
version of 'Til There Was You'.
Whatever the reasoning, it can't be denied that this 'new Bachata' has
opened up a far more appreciative audience to the genre, who may have
simply dispersed it as just some more Latin music, when the truth is far
different. As the style has changed over the years, so have the
instruments that accompany it – whereas a plain acoustic guitar may have
been the inspiration behind Bacahata all these years ago, now it's not
unusual to find a second electric guitar, as well as a bass and bongo
drum to fill out the sound. One addition that has made a distinct
difference in sound has been the change from traditional maracas to an
instrument known as 'guira', a cylindrical sheet of metal with small
perforations, which you then play with a small brush. Sounding like a
mix between a drummer's high hat and maracas, it adds a unique style to
today's Bachata.
Although the subject matter of Bacahata lyrics is usually anything but
joyful, the same cannot be said of the music itself. Played at a
four-four tempo, it's uplifting, inspiring and offers a true joie de
vivre to anyone fortunate enough to be present at a Bachata session
(although some of the slower songs can subdue this atmosphere). With the
enticing atmosphere that the small bars and outside tables that are
traditionally associated with the playing of Bacahata, coupled with an
enthusiastic crowd enjoying fine Latin American drink and fare, it
really does leave both an instant impact and a lasting impression.
Such has been the effect that this kind of music has on people, that
dance is now an integral part of the whole occasion. Often compared to
the salsa and merengue, Bachata dancing is a different style of dance
completely. Whereas both merengue and salsa can be enjoyed as either an
exhilarating release or a more intimate, almost sexual-like meeting of
two people, Bacahata dancing is enjoyed at a slower tempo. Although it
doesn't have the same pace as its two contemporaries, the depth of
intensity between two dancers is just as strong, if not more so.
For those not versed in Bachata dancing but wishing to try it, the
actual basics are very easy to understand and pick up; it's the little
movements throughout that take the practice. The overall pattern is:
· Three steps in one direction, with a side-close-side combination
· Intimate movement
· Three steps back in the other direction, side-close-side
· Intimate movement
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