Dominican Republic Music & Culture Workshop
Dates: 4/4-4/10
Location: International
Price Range: $5400-5800
Theme: Arts & Culture
Faculty Contact: Ed Castro
Join us for a cultural and musical journey through the Dominican Republic! Beginning in the historic Colonial Zone of Santo Domingo, students will explore Afro-Dominican traditions through music, dance, and community exchange. Highlights include hands-on drumming and dance workshops in Baní and Villa Mella, a visit to the Centro León Cultural Center in Santiago, and an immersive experience with The DREAM Project and Bachata Academy in Cabarete.
Throughout this trip, participants will connect directly with Dominican musicians, educators, and youth—experiencing firsthand how art and culture build bridges between generations and communities. This trip is intended for students interested in the intersection of music and culture, offering opportunities to engage deeply with the rhythms, dances, and stories that define Dominican identity. It will also appeal to students who wish to practice their Spanish as a supplement to their current Spanish course. Additionally, this journey may engage those curious about the musical traditions of the Caribbean and their enduring connections to African roots.
- Students and families should be aware that this experience includes:
- Warm, humid weather and extended time outdoors in urban and rural settings
- Active days involving walking tours, drumming, dancing, and community workshops
- Travel between multiple regions with varying accommodations and transportation
- Opportunities to try new foods, adapt to different routines, and participate respectfully in cross-cultural exchanges through music and art
Itinerary Overview
- Day 1 – Saturday, April 4: Santo Domingo
- Depart the USA and arrive in Santo Domingo. Check into your hotel in the Colonial Zone and meet your ACIS Tour Manager. Enjoy dinner together and settle in for the week ahead.
- Day 2 – Sunday, April 5: Santo Domingo / Baní
- Travel to Baní to experience the vibrant Sarandunga tradition—an Afro-Dominican celebration of music and dance honoring San Juan Bautista. Participate in workshops with local musicians, enjoy a traditional Dominican lunch, and return to Santo Domingo for dinner and a live evening performance by Grupo Bonye at the Ruins of San Francisco Monastery.
- Day 3 – Monday, April 6: Santo Domingo / Villa Mella
- Engage in a workshop on the UNESCO-recognized Congos of the Holy Spirit in Villa Mella. Learn about the Brotherhood’s musical heritage and drumming techniques before exploring the Zona Colonial by Chu-Chu train tour. Dinner in Santo Domingo.
- Day 4 – Tuesday, April 7: Santiago
- Journey north to Santiago, stopping for a scenic hike and swim at Salto de Jima waterfall. Visit the Centro León Cultural Center for an afternoon of art and history, followed by dinner in the city.
- Day 5 – Wednesday, April 8: Santiago / Cabarete
- Participate in a music and dance workshop with Rafael Mirabal & Folklore Ballet, preserving Dominican folk traditions. After lunch, travel to Cabarete and check into your beachside hotel for some rest.
- Day 6 – Thursday, April 9: Cabarete
- Visit The DREAM Project and Bachata Academy to learn how music and education empower youth across the Dominican Republic. Later, meet with a local group blending jazz and Dominican rhythms. End the day with a farewell bonfire dinner on the beach.
- Day 7 – Friday, April 10: Departure
- Depart for the USA after breakfast, carrying memories of an inspiring cultural adventure.