Dominican Roots with Yasser
As one of the first colonial settlements of the Americas, the Dominican Republic is home to a diverse musical culture that has been influenced by West African, European, and indigenous Taíno people. It is probably most known for its globally popular merengue and bachata, but folk music and folk dance, including palos and congos, are as alive as any of the Dominican Republic’s modern styles. This traditional music can be heard across the island, and each region adds unique instruments, rhythms, and chants to make the music all their own.
Yasser was born and raised in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic and currently lives in Brooklyn. As a guitarist, vocalist, composer, and producer, Yasser combines traditional Dominican roots music with jazz, rock, and Caribbean rhythms. Through his music, he inspires students to sing, dance, and celebrate their roots.
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Lessons
Resources for Teachers
The following resources provide background information about the musical tradition and culture. Some are intended to be shared with students; others are for teachers who may want to explore further on their own.
Listening
- Visit yassertejeda.net to hear more of Yasser’s music and albums or find him on Spotify.
- Kijombo
- Mezclansa
Videos
- Leyenda Congo de Villa Mella
- Fiestas de atabales
- Cofradía del Espíritu Santo de los Congos de Villa Mella
- Sarandunga de Baní
Reading
- From Across the Street, Wanda Vásquez García and Sócrates García
Additional Resources
- Carnegie Hall’s Timeline of African American Music: Caribbean and Latin Connections in Jazz
- Dominican Republic Tourism Official Website
Image Credits
Colonial Zone (Ciudad Colonial), Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic. The Colonial Architectures of the Palacio Consistorial by mauritius images GmbH / Alamy Stock Photo
Traditional Music Group, Old City, Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic by Little valleys / Alamy Stock Photo