GUATEMALA
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LOOK AND LISTEN: (Click here for audio)
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Guatemala is a beautiful country with roots in Spanish and Mayan culture. Something distincive about Guatemala is its affection for a drum called the marimba. If you ever find yourself walking through the streets of Guatemala, you will most likely find men playing the marimba either for tourists, at a festival or fiesta, or for their own pleasure. It is beloved by Guatemalans, especially the ones who are of Maya heritage. Named Guatemala’s national instrument in 19781, the marimba has not only brought joy to its people but also played a large role in helping to shape indigenous identity. |
Image: Maudslay, Alfred Percival. 1889. Biologia Centrali-Americana, or, Contributions to the knowledge of the fauna and flora of Mexico and Central America. Archaeology Atlas v. 3, London : Published for the editors by R.H. Porter, and Dulau & Co.
Sound: "Bella Guatemala" by Chapinlandia - Marimba Music of Guatemala, courtesy of Smithsonian Folkways Recordings. (p) (c) 2007. Used by permission.
