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A rhythm born in the countryside<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/visit-latin-america.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/10320-1024x680-1.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n<\/div>\nThe origins of merengue date back to the 19th century, when it began to develop in the rural communities of the north, particularly in the Cibao <\/strong>region. From its earliest forms, it reflected a meeting of several traditions: African influences providing the rhythmic foundation, and European elements visible in its musical structure and some instruments. <\/p>\n\nIn its beginnings, merengue was performed with string instruments like the tres <\/em>and the cuatro <\/em>at rural gatherings and popular festivals. Gradually, the instrumental ensemble that would define traditional merengue \u2014also called perico ripiao<\/em>\u2014 took shape: the tambora<\/em>, a double-headed drum of African origin that marks the pulse; the metal g\u00fcira<\/em>, which keeps the rhythm; and the accordion, introduced by German merchants, which carries the melody. <\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n\nFrom popular music to a national symbol<\/strong><\/h2>\n\nFor a long time, merengue was associated with the working classes and rural festivities. Its trajectory changed with the rise to power of Rafael Le\u00f3nidas Trujillo (1930\u20131961)<\/strong>. The dictator made it the music of official events and public celebrations, helping to establish it throughout the country. <\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n\n
<\/figure>\n<\/div>\nThe origins of merengue date back to the 19th century, when it began to develop in the rural communities of the north, particularly in the Cibao <\/strong>region. From its earliest forms, it reflected a meeting of several traditions: African influences providing the rhythmic foundation, and European elements visible in its musical structure and some instruments. <\/p>\n\n In its beginnings, merengue was performed with string instruments like the tres <\/em>and the cuatro <\/em>at rural gatherings and popular festivals. Gradually, the instrumental ensemble that would define traditional merengue \u2014also called perico ripiao<\/em>\u2014 took shape: the tambora<\/em>, a double-headed drum of African origin that marks the pulse; the metal g\u00fcira<\/em>, which keeps the rhythm; and the accordion, introduced by German merchants, which carries the melody. <\/p>\n\n For a long time, merengue was associated with the working classes and rural festivities. Its trajectory changed with the rise to power of Rafael Le\u00f3nidas Trujillo (1930\u20131961)<\/strong>. The dictator made it the music of official events and public celebrations, helping to establish it throughout the country. <\/p>\n\nFrom popular music to a national symbol<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n