Traditional Latin music like Salsa, Meringue, and Bachata are also very popular, especially among older crowds. Younger generations are seemingly more interested in Reggaeton which combines Latino rhythms with Jamaican Reggae and dancehall. The youth within Latin America have come to enjoy this new genre as a characteristic solely of their generation. The Afro-Caribbean influence is very common on the east side of the country where the Afrocostarricense population is predominant. Here you will regularly hear Soca, Rumba, Reggae, and Calypso.
The modern world of Rock is not left out of today’s musical influences. Hard Rock, alternative, and metal are in style with the younger generations of Costa Rica. The presence of North American television stations allows Costa Ricans to view MTV music videos and this has brought a slight influence of pop culture into the country as well.
The earlier influences of pre-Columbian cultures can be found in traditional folk music. The Ocarina is an ancient instrument dating back about 12,000 years. It has shown great historical influence in China and Mesoamerica. The Mayans and the Aztecs had their own version of this oval shaped, flute-like instrument consisting of four to twelve finger holes for producing different notes. This instrument along with ceremonial songs and rare musical scales were passed down from these ancient ancestors.
The marimba is another musical instrument traditionally played by the Costa Rican people. It is a member of the percussion family. It has a series of wooden keys of different sizes that are struck with mallets to produce the different notes. Large marimbas are played by 3 people at one time in order to carry different rhythms, with base, and melody being played together. You will come across this beautiful instrument at some local festivals still today.
To honour the few remaining traditional artisans as well as the new, up and coming artists of the country, the Culture Ministry and the San José Municipality organizes a National Artisan Fair. The finest works in the country are displayed here. Smaller fairs are sometimes held in other parts of the country too. There is also an International Arts Festival in the Central Valley in the second week of March. Here there are international art exhibits with performances in theatre, dance, and music.
