Music and art are very important in Panamanian cultural traditions. Because of the influence of many cultures in Panama (Spanish, Caribbean, African and American), many different types of music and art are popular here. I will try to give you an introduction to some traditions in Panama by writing about traditional music, dances and costumes.
Since I have been in here, I have learned about traditional dancing and music, or música tipica (literally meaning “typical music”). This music is very popular in the countryside of Panama where I do my research. A specific type of typical music is called tamborito, which means “little drum”. You guessed it: It is performed by a band with many little drums. Check out this video to see a parade of people in Tonosi playing tamborito music.
At cultural celebrations, traditional folkloric dances are performed to this music. One style of these dances is also called tamborito, named after the music. Along with the professional dance performances, the crowd usually dances in a big circle together. Here is a video of this circle dance during the Week of the Farmer in Tonosi, where I work.
Normally, during these dances, the women wear beautiful dresses called polleras that are passed down through generations in Panama.
