Where is merengue performed

Merengue as a music and dance form, is most strongly identified with the Dominican Republic. Its spread has been aided, in part, by the large numbers of Dominicans immigrating to the United States, bringing the merengue with them.

The merengue is a relatively easy to learn but fun and sexy Latin American dance from the Dominican Republic. Merengue is to the Dominican Republic what blues, jazz, and hip-hop are to the United States—a musical style and dance that seems to represent the spirit of an entire country.

A massive migration of Dominicans to New York City started in the s. Today merengue tipico actually consists of several different rhythms. Merengue derecho, or straight-ahead merengue, is the kind of fast-paced, march-like merengue Americans are most used to hearing.

Tempo is one of the primary differences between the two genres. The earliest bachata originated in the countryside of the Dominican Republic in the first half of the 20th century. In , the traditional practice was recognised by presidential decree with November 26 declared National Merengue Day.

Danced in pairs, flirtatious gestures are used as participants move in circles to the rhythm of music played on instruments such as the accordion, drum and saxophone.

It is a dance that is usually introduced to learners at an early age. Knowledge and skills on the practice are transmitted through observation, participation and imitation. Haiti ruled over St. Dominque until when it was named the Dominican Republic. The nation went through many dictatorships before the United States intervened with a democracy in From the start, Merengue dancing became very popular.

It was easily accessible due to its simple and open nature. Originally, partners had the freedom to hold hands throughout the dance or separate while maintaining close contact.

Dancers were able to add steps and their own individualistic dance style. Today, Merengue is a very popular dance throughout the world. Today, Merengue dancing is celebrated throughout the world. Authentic Merengue is danced to a clear and consistent rhythm. The dance is casual and when turns are used they are done to walking steps in as many steps as the dancer sees fit. Authentic Merengue dance styling is simple and there is no need for the exaggerated Latin vertical back and forth hip action.

When dancers of Folk Merengue do move their hips, they move them in full circles while maintaining a straight upper body.