This session aims to present findings about the societal role of the traditional marimba in Costa Rica. Through an exhaustive research process spanning over two decades, the researchers (Raziel Acevedo, University of Costa Rica, and Fernando Meza, University of Minnesota) have identified important imprimaturs in this musical culture, unifying elements of Mesoamerican and African ancestry, as well as unique ones of a purely Costa Rican character.

Developed from traditions that grew out of the "marimba de arco" and diatonic instruments, marimba participants in Costa Rica include both professional and amateur musicians and builders. All of them have honed their craft on the chromatic marimba after intersecting with an instrument from Guatemala in the earlier part of the 20th century, and since that time have made it an integral part of the fabric of life in the country, particularly in the province of Guanacaste. Through the celebration of "fiestas patronales" in cities like Santa Cruz, Liberia, and Nicoya, as well as through cultural presentations throughout the country, the tradition of the marimba allows for the involvement of individuals from all walks of life to partake in this cultural representation.

The importance of the conservation of this tradition for the country has prompted not only the creation of an official school for young students (University of Costa Rica – "Escuela de Etapa Básica"), but also the creation of a "Marimba Forest" in the city of Santa Cruz, in order to create an ecologically balanced environment where materials needed for instruments and mallets can be harvested responsibly in order for this tradition to flourish and continue for generations to come.

This session will present to marimba enthusiasts from around the world for the first time at PASIC as a scholarly session the importance of the marimba within Costa Rican culture, in order to provide a deeper understanding of its roots, history, and impact within the country.