The Versatility of Marimba Music

While the marimba has long history, it has only emerged in Western music within the last hundred years. Still, even in such a short period the marimba has been introduced into both new and old musical works and has crossed musical barriers, making its way into a variety of different genres.^[1] Of course, the marimba still holds firm as the symbol and star of traditional Guatemalan music. Indeed, the Guatemalan waltz “Luna de Xelajú,” originally composed by Paco Pérez in 1942 and featuring the marimba has been performed by most of the great musicians of the country, and has developed into something of an unofficial anthem for the people.^[2][3]



Additionally, the marimba has not just become a background instrument in concert ensembles. The talent of professional marimba musicians has put the instrument in the spotlight and has made it the standout of concertos. Here is one of our favorites:



So tell us your favorite marimba piece! Which do you enjoy playing the most? Maybe a favorite marimba performance video to share? We want to hear it!


1. “What is a Marimba Concerto?” wiseGEEK. Retrieved 26 Sept 2012. 2. Rodriguez, Jazmine. “Sounds of Guatemala: The Marimba.” Roots and Wings International. 29 Sep 2011. Retrieved 26 Sept 2012. 3. “Music of Guatemala.” EconomicExpert.com. Retrieved 26 Sept 2012. Videos: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bGtuR5_4EcY