Learn Cuban Folk Music with Montano Cubano

Step into the heartbeat of Cuban music in this hands-on rhythm workshop led by Jorge of Montuno Cubano. The focus is on rhythm and participation — everyone gets a turn on the percussion, cycling through maracas, clave, shakers, güiro, and a pair of floor-standing pedal instruments. You'll learn a couple of traditional rhythms hand-picked by Jorge, which may include salsa, sucu sucu, guaracha, or rumba flamenca.

Keep an eye out for the güiro, a ridged gourd played with a scraper — an instrument even many seasoned musicians have never encountered. There may also be a simple call-and-response song with a few Spanish words to repeat together, turning the whole room into one ensemble.

No experience needed — just bring your hands and your sense of timing