Collective Percussion with La Perla

Collective Percussion with La Perla (Karen Forero, Roberta Leono & Diana Sanmiguel)
In Spanish & English

The workshop focuses on instrumental performance, singing, and dance traditions from the rural music of Colombia’s Caribbean coast. Within the rich tradition of bailes cantados (sung dances), we explore rhythms such as bullerengue, chalupa, and fandango. Through the gaita ensemble tradition, participants engage with rhythms including gaita, merengue, cumbia, puya, and porro.

We believe music belongs to everyone, and that anyone can learn. Our workshops are open to people of all ages and all levels of musical experience. We aim to foster processes of exploration, discovery, embodiment, and mastery of both musical and movement practices, while honoring each participant’s individual learning journey. We value the oral transmission of knowledge, rooted in listening, repetition, collective practice, and an understanding of the cultural contexts from which these traditions emerge.

Our approach emphasizes:

Body awareness and movement consciousness
Imitation as an essential learning tool
Improvisation and creative expression
Collective practice and ensemble work
Through these practices, participants connect with the living traditions of Colombia’s Caribbean music while developing their own artistic voice within a collaborative community.

No previous experience is necessary!
If you have access to a drum (conga, djembe), you are welcome to bring them to the space, as well as wide skirts to learn the movement.
Registration required! Please confirm your participation by sending a short email to info@vbkoe.org (as space is limited).
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La Perla is a percussion and vocal trio from Bogotá, inspired by the traditional sounds of Colombia’s Caribbean coast and influenced by a range of rhythms including Dominican merengue, champeta, punk, hiphop, and beatboxing. Formed in 2014, the group is made up of Karen Forero, Roberta Leono (Giovanna Mogollón), and Diana Sanmiguel.