Raíces
Cultural
Center

Cultural and FOLKLORIC Arts

Drum, Song & Dance Classes

About this Program

Raíces Cultural Center offers instruction in Caribbean folkloric dance, drum and song. Participants learn the fundamentals of rhythms, songs and dances from traditional and folkloric genres from the Caribbean, including the Afro-Cuban Orisha tradition and the Puerto Rican forms of bomba and plena. Throughout the classes, participants also learn about the basic cultural history of these artistic forms.

Classes are taught by core members of the Raíces Cultural & Community Arts team, with occasional guest teachers and scheduled field trips to cultural events in our region. Class participants have the opportunity to share what they learned in periodic student showcase and community events. Learn more about our current class offerings and register below.

If you are looking to schedule private classes and workshops for school groups and organizations please submit a presentation request.

See current class offerings below!

Weekly Classes at Raíces

The Summer cycle has begun!

All classes are ongoing and you can register at any time, no prior experience required.

These open, public classes will introduce the rudiments of bomba dance and explore the cultural significance and history of the genre.
Learn More

Introduction to Bomba Dance

Mondays
7-8pm

These open, public classes will introduce the basic movements of several Afro-Cuban dance forms including orisha dance, rumba, and comparsa.
Sign Up

Introduction to Afro-Cuban Dance

Mondays
8-9pm

Drum lessons are offered in small groups of 5-10 students.

Each current cycle of lessons is focused on a different genre of Caribbean drumming!
Pre Register for Fall

Introduction to Caribbean Drumming

No Fall Classes!
Will resume in 2025

Raíces Cultural Center & Highland Park Department of Aging Presents Caribbean Drum, Song & Dance Classes for adults aged 55 and up.

Call or email Raíces to register: (917)-583-4797 or raices@raicesculturalcenter.org.

Creative Aging Cultural Arts Classes for 55+

Tuesdays
1-2:30pm

Explore the cultural roots of the Caribbean and beyond by through drum, dance, song and storytelling!

For Children 10 and under with a parent or guardian.
Register Now

Raícitas "Little Roots" Family Cultural Arts

Monthly Family Cultural Arts Workshops