Afro-Cuban Dance: Understanding the Clave Rhythm Pattern
Description:
This clip focuses on understanding the son clave rhythm and moving to it. The video excerpt begins with a short demonstration of call and response. Then dancers walk in a box, moving to the rhythm pattern. Katherine Kramer teaches the three-measure pattern measure by measure. Concepts include quarter notes, half notes, 4/4 time, pulse, beat, and the measure.Suggested Uses:
- Watch to build your own knowledge and understanding of Afro-Cuban dance and influence, or for ideas on how to teach the dance movements to your students.
- Show to demonstrate and guide movement activities with students.
- Show in combination with African dance excerpts to compare and contrast.
For more information:
(These links may leave the Arts Toolkit.)
See the Dance and Culture section of the Dance Arts Toolkit binder.
About The Arts III: Afro-Cuban Dance:
- Workshop description
- Downloadable guide (PDF format)


