Another piece of music in the Link Up program is Danzon No. 2 by a composer named Arturo Marquez, who was born in 1950 (which makes him 74 years old).  Marquez is one of the most prominent Mexican classical composers. Born in Alamos, Mexico, he was introduced to music by his father, a mariachi (MEXICAN FOLK MUSIC) musician, and his grandfather, a folk musician. Márquez’s family moved to Los Angeles when he was 11, and he remained committed to music, composing, and playing the violin in school. When he was 17 years old, Márquez went to the Mexican Music Conservatory to study composition. He later studied music in Paris before returning to California. His earlier pieces of music were different in style, and he experimented with different styles of music. When he returned to Mexico, Márquez wanted to reach a broader audience. He began to go to Mexico City’s dance halls, where he discovered the danzón (A PEASANT DANCE THAT COMES FROM CUBA BUT ORIGINATED IN AFRICA.  IT IS NOW VERY POPULAR IN MEXICO). His most famous works are eight danzónes that incorporate this Mexican style into classical forms. Márquez currently lives in Mexico City, where he teaches and continues to compose.

Now listen as the Danzon No. 2 is taken apart and looked at.  You can clap along quietly with the rhythms that you hear.  The best way to clap quietly is to only use 2 fingers on each hand instead of your whole palm.  Take 30 seconds and try this.  When the timer end you must FREEZE!

OK, now they you are ready make sure that you listen for the 2 different rhythms that are being played on the Clave (A SMALL HANDHELD PERCUSSION INSTRUMENT).  Make sure that you ONLY clap what you hear.

Did you hear the the other types of music that uses a similar percussive pattern?  Can you name 2 or 3?

Lets look at this Reggae song.  Can you hear any similar rhythms in this song that you heard in the Danzon?

Listen to the song again.  Can you sing along with the chorus?

Hold him Joe, hold him Joe
Hold him Joe but don't let him go
Hold him Joe, hold him Joe
Hold him Joe but don't let him go
​
The donkey want water (hold him Joe)
Spring 'round the corner (hold him Joe)
The donkey want water (hold him Joe)
Everybody want water (hold him Joe)