By:

Marino Jaén Espinosa
2009-11-25

Panamanian tipico music has a large local following. This fact ensure that there is a sizable market for dozens of bands playing every weekend all over the country.

These events have been taking place since the late 19th Century. However, they were very different then. The first difference is that the main instrument used to be the violin, and not the accordion as it is today. During the years, many other changes have been done, but the essence of the event remains the same: to have fun with friends and dance.

The organization of the ball includes thins like a contract that needs to be signed between the owner of the event and the musician. Also, there must be another contract between the organizer and the owner of the venue. There are differente types of arrangements regarding the payment of the musicians. It could be a fixed sum or a percentajes of some of the different revenue streams generated during the ball, such as drinks, dancing tax or cover.

Once the selected date approaches, the organizer has to advertise the event. This is done through radio and road signs mainly. But also on TV and, increasingly, over the internet.

The day of the ball, there is a lot of activity at the venue. People carry equipment and supplies. Sometimes, the ball is part of bigger event such as a matanza or a fair. Sometimes, there is even a cantadera preceding the ball.

When it is time for the music to begin, a couple of fireworks are launched. This is done in order to call the dancers living in the nearby areas.

In a future article, we will talk about what happens once the ball starts.