Music and Dance

Música y Baile

It’s likely that you have your own musical taste and, chances are, the music that you like is not what abuela has downloaded on her iPod. A successful event is one that finds a smooth mix between the traditional tunes that will have the adults grooving and the new jams that will have all of your friends waiting for MTV3 to bang down the door with their cameras.

First, let’s remember that your quince is a family affair.

Whether you have a band or a DJ, be sure to let them know that you will have many older people there (as well as many young children) so you want the music for your night to be appropriate. Tell your DJ to mix in some classic merengues, salsas and cha-chas into the mix and to play the radio-friendly edited versions of the new music that sometimes contains malas palabras.

You certainly don’t want Tia María to rush the stage throwing her chancleta at the lead singer!

Because of the formalities of a traditional Quince, there are some parts of the event that will be scripted and planned. Always prepare a list with the name of those walking in your court along with songs to be played for your celebration. Before your grand entrance, there may be a cocktail hour with appetizers. This is a good time for people to mingle and visit, so nice, quiet background music like an instrumental is appropriate. Then, your guests should be asked to take their seats.
As you make your entrance, a triumphant march can be played. If you are having a more contemporary, themed party, an appropriate theme song will get the crowd’s attention. You can then move into the traditional waltz (which you should have practiced many times with your Court), and then into father-daughter or other special dances like El Danzón. After these choreographed numbers, have your guests settle in for dinner, again with quiet jazz or classical music from your home country providing the mood.

After dinner, you will probably notice three or four of your younger primos running around and dancing on the dance floor.

That is a good time to give your DJ the thumbs up and then – Que comience la fiesta! It is always good to have met with the DJ or band to let them know what special songs you want to hear – but remember, many of your guests will have their own requests, so make sure that your DJ has a wide variety of music and not just “Sweatin’ to the Oldies Volume 1 and 2”. If you do not have the budget for an expensive DJ or band, then don’t feel bad about making your own mix-CDs or downloading songs for the party ahead of time. But again, remember to include music that takes into account everyone’s tastes.

No matter what happens, remember to let loose and have a good time – but keep in mind the importance of your Quince – sharing your traditions with your family. Early preparation for your big night is very important. Make your music request list in advance and dance the night away.