Drums at the Beach

Description

Nestled along the Caribbean coast, La Boquilla is a picturesque fishing village where the rhythms of Afro-Colombian culture pulse through daily life. This vibrant community, shaped by a deep-rooted musical heritage, has preserved its traditions through generations, using music as both a form of storytelling and a symbol of resilience. Here, the hypnotic beats of the tambores (traditional drums) echo through the streets, connecting past and present in a powerful way.

You’ll begin your experience by stepping into the heart of La Boquilla, where the warm sea breeze carries the sounds of daily life—fishermen hauling in their catch, children playing, and, most notably, the rhythmic drumming that defines the community. A local guide will introduce you to the neighborhood, offering insight into its history and the significance of music as a means of cultural preservation. At a traditional music school, expert musicians and drum makers will welcome you into their world, sharing the origins of Afro-Colombian rhythms and the essential role they play in storytelling, identity, and resistance.

After learning the foundations of these powerful beats, you’ll be invited to join a live jam session. Feel the energy of the music as you play alongside experienced drummers, immersing yourself in the rich musical traditions that have shaped the Caribbean coast. You’ll also witness the graceful movements of traditional dancers, whose performances add another layer of depth to the experience. Beyond the music, your visit supports a meaningful initiative that provides music education to local children, ensuring that this cultural legacy continues to thrive.

As the session comes to an end, the beats of La Boquilla will stay with you—an unforgettable reminder of the power of music to unite, inspire, and transform. You’ll return to Cartagena carrying not just the memory of this immersive experience, but also a deeper connection to the rhythms and resilience of Colombia’s Afro-Caribbean heritage.