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Plena is a traditional form of Puerto
Rican music. It is a blend of Spanish, African, and native Taíno music. The music's beat and rhythm are mainly due to the African derived conga drums, more specifically called panderetas. Plena is played throughout Puerto Rico especially during nights of special occasions such as Christmas. The
music was created by a free black couple in Ponce, Puerto
Rico and it quickly became a "singing news paper" for the slaves, used to spread messages among the people, similar to the
corridos in Mexico. The music is related to similar music in Trinidad.
The audience also joins in the singing, clapping, and dancing. This is an African
characteristic.
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