Merengue Genre in Music

By Sara García 

Merengue is a musical genre and dance style originating in the Dominican Republic. It is characterized by its fast, contagious rhythm, making it one of the most popular genres of Latin music. 

MERENGUE SUBGENERES

1. Typical Merengue (Perico Ripiao): A more folksy version with an accordion.

2. Orchestrated Merengue: With a large brass section and elaborate arrangements.

3. Pop/Ballad Merengue: A fusion of pop and romantic lyrics.

4. Street Merengue: An urban version with fast-paced lyrics and a fast-paced rhythm.

Below is an example of a Merengue mix: 

TRADITIONAL INSTRUMENTS

Merengue is performed with several key instruments:

* Accordion: Essential in typical merengue or "perico ripiao."

* Güira: A brass instrument that marks the rhythm.

* Tambora: A double-headed drum played with sticks and hands.

* Saxophone and trumpet: Featured in modern and orchestrated merengue.

* Electric bass and keyboards: Used in contemporary merengue.

STRUCTURE AND RHYTM

* It is generally composed in 214 time, which gives it its fast-paced rhythm.

* The structure typically includes an instrumental introduction, verses, repetitive choruses, and instrumental solos.

* It is a very danceable genre, with quick steps and pronounced hip movements.