Tumbao for Youth Orchestra

This module ignites the energy of salsa, bachata, and reggaetón in the orchestra. Students explore Latin rhythms through movement, listening, and performance as they dive into Horacio Fernández’s Tumbao. Alongside musical practice, students learn about the Afro-Caribbean roots of these genres, the instruments that define them, and the cultural histories they carry. Through playful, hands-on activities and engaging videos created by the composer, students will discover the rhythm of the clave, and explore how Latin music is built on the heartbeat of the rhythm section. Activities invite students to connect the rhythms of Tumbao to their own lived experiences and communities, creating a rich blend of technical growth and cultural exploration. Students are encouraged to investigate the rhythms of Tumbao in their own lived experiences and communities, to cultivate a rich blend of technical growth and cultural exploration.
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What students walk away with:

  • Embodied understanding of Afro-Caribbean rhythmic systems
  • Skills performing groove-based ensemble music
  • The ability to connect rhythm to movement and physical expression
  • Cultural awareness of the traditions behind Latin dance music
  • Experience anchoring ensemble sound through rhythm section listening
  • Confidence performing rhythm-driven repertoire

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For purchase and module use email jess@americancomposers.org