Bararumba is a 14 piece Afro-Cuban Folkloric Percussionist/Dance and Song Troupe from Baracoa, Cuba. Of these, 11 are in Canada this summer. Baracoa is situated on the east coast of Cuba, and because of its isolation, this folkloric group has developed an unique style. Vibrant, pounding rhythms, sensuous, sexy courtship dances, fire breathing, glass walking and glass eating, are only a sample of the variety of their performances. From the courtly son to the pulsating congo, Bararumba knows over 35 dances.

The group consists of 7 percussionists and 7 dancers. Besides a love of music, the percussionists have regular jobs, from welding to pharmacy. The percussion section consists of three drums, the bass (bajo), middle drum or segunda, and the highest pitch solo drum, called the quinto. Other typical instruments are the marimbula, a combination of a drum box and an African finger piano, cowbell called a cencerro, claves or sticks, guagua, made from bamboo, maracas or shakers, and the osero, or bongos. Everyone sings, the dancers as well as the musicians. The call and response style of singing is derived from their Congolese roots.

Of the dancers, the twins, Eider & Hector, are the stars. With their big smiles, feats of athleticism, and powerful dances, they are real crowd pleasers. The beautiful female dancers, Maria, Aile, Yanicet, & Magdalena have dance steps that vary from sensuous swaying movements to pulsating, foot stomping rhythms. Bararumba is a “goosebump” group.

CD Cover - Hear us! A sample of some of our music

         For details or more information please contact Susan Barker at:

         Phone: 250-744-1631