October 2022 GCBC: Cuba Music and Movement

Cuba Movement Activities

Baseball is the official sport of Cuba and is wildly popular! It’s very popular to see children playing baseball in the streets. Check out this video about Cuba’s efforts to become a Little League on the international stage.

Cuba Dance and Music

Dance and music are considered inseparable and integral to Cuban culture. Danzón, influenced by African rhythm and dance, is the official dance and musical genre of Cuba. Common dances include cha-cha, bolero, mambo, rumba, and salsa. Cuba is also home to the largest ballet school in the world, the Cuban National Ballet School in Havana.

Cuban music is all about the beat, with drums playing a featured role. Bongo drums are common rhythm-makers in salsa and more. HERE is a fun 3-in-1 bongo instrument craft. And HERE is a rumba conga shaker craft.

Play: Cuban Games

In addition to soccer, Cubans enjoying playing dominoes. Children partake in many outdoor games, such as “la vuelta al tronco” (round the tree trunk), “el gato y el ratón” (cat and mouse), “los prisioneros” (prisoners, and “el lobo y los corderos” (wolf and lambs). Go HERE to learn a little more about common children’s games in Cuba.

Cuba National Anthem