Michael Spiro, Roberto Borrell and Jesús Díaz at SFJAZZ
The Batá are three drums that originated in Nigeria and are used in Cuba to play in religious ceremonies and for performance. It is a very complex and beautiful art. The drums play simultaneously, creating their own language by “talking” to each other.
Roberto will go through different songs used in Orisha dance and played on the Batá. You will learn the words to the songs, where the Clave falls, and a most important factor for being able to hear and understand the drums: Where is the One?
The second half of the class we will get up and dance. Each student will try to sing the words to the songs out loud and demonstrate where the movement is placed within the song. Don't worry, perfection is not expected!!!
Son is in the air!
The Matinee Son Party!!!!! This Sunday (Dec 7)
¡Ven a bailar!
6007 Christie Ave. Emeryville
4 PM Dance Lesson
4:30 PM-8:00 PM Dance Party
$15 at the door, cash or Venmo
The Matinee Son Party!!!!! This Sunday (Dec 7)
¡Ven a bailar!
6007 Christie Ave. Emeryville
4 PM Dance Lesson
4:30 PM-8:00 PM Dance Party
$15 at the door, cash or Venmo
Dance class, Demonstration, and Multimedia presentation on the
ABAKUA!
WHEN: Saturday, August 23, 2025
TIME: 4:30 pm to 6:00 pm
WHERE: Mission Neighborhood Center, 362 Capp St., San Francisco, 94110
PRICE: $25 (sliding scale- available)
REGISTER: www.RuedaConRitmo.com/events/2025/8/23/abakua
WHAT: Lecture, Demonstration, and short Dance Class on the Abakua with
Roberto Borrell
Join Roberto Borrell and Rueda Con Ritmo, as Roberto explores how an all-male
secret society from the Calabar region in Africa was transplanted, survived, and
evolved to influence nearly all aspects of Cuban music and dance.
Roberto will explain the musical connection between Abakua, Rumba, and Timba
demonstrate the dance of the Ireme (see image above), and provide a short
dance class for you to learn the basic moves.
Take your understanding of Cuban music to a new level!
