Iliana Rose: The Roots of Cuban Music- African & Spanish Origins

This is a free lecture but registration is required. Use the ticket link to register. If you like these kinds of events, please consider supporting the Museum's programming by making a donation.

Part one a six-part series titled “The Evolution of Cuban Music: Tracing Cuba’s Musical DNA.” Discover the roots of Afro-Cuban music in this dynamic and immersive program. Explore how African and Spanish traditions blended during the colonial era to create one of the world’s most influential musical cultures. Through live demonstrations on historical instruments, you’ll hear the heartbeat of the music—clave patterns in both 3-2 and 2-3 forms, the power of call-and-response, and the layering of traditional percussion that shaped early fusion styles.

Engaging multimedia examples will highlight the earliest Afro-Cuban rhythms alongside the European classical elements that intertwined with them. Attendees will also receive take-home materials, including a glossary of instruments, a clave rhythm guide, and a historical timeline tracing the impact of colonization and slavery on the evolution of the music.

A vibrant journey through history, culture, rhythm, and resilience. Join us for an unforgettable experience.

This season of the Sigal Music Museum Distinguished Lecture Series is made possible by the generous sponsorship of The Woodlands at Furman.

Know what’s Happening Next — before everyone else does.

Get App

Host or Publisher Sigal Music Museum