Bringing Culture to Life Through Dance: Grade 4 Performs Colombian Cumbia at Renbrook
At Renbrook School, language education is not limited to vocabulary and grammar—it’s an immersive journey through history, culture, and human connection. This philosophy comes to life in the vibrant teaching of Camila Pina, a passionate and dynamic world language educator who believes deeply in the power of experiential learning. One of the most impactful tools in her classroom is dance.
Renbrook’s fourth-grade students captivate the school community each year with their performance of Cumbia, a folkloric dance that originated on the Caribbean coast of Colombia in the late 1800s. Cumbia is a rich blend of African, Indigenous, and European musical and dance traditions, making it an ideal expression of cultural fusion. Known for its joyful rhythms, simple steps, and inclusive spirit, Cumbia has spread across Latin America, uniting communities through movement and music.
For Pina, who grew up in Brazil surrounded by music and dance, this teaching method is both personal and purposeful. Her students not only learn the choreography of dances like Cumbia or Flamenco but also engage with the language and cultural context behind each step. In the case of Cumbia, students explored its historical roots, learned about the instruments that shape its rhythm, and understood how enslaved Africans used dance as a form of expression and resilience. Spanish vocabulary is seamlessly woven into instruction, helping students internalize language in an active, embodied way.
Beyond Educational Value
Beyond its educational value, dance at Renbrook is a community celebration. Students share their learning with peers, teachers, and families, transforming hallways and common spaces into stages of cultural appreciation. The Grade 4 Cumbia Dance Crew exemplified this spirit of joyful collaboration—students took pride in suggesting moves, encouraging one another, and stepping outside their comfort zones to perform with confidence.
A Method of Connection
Dance at Renbrook is more than performance—it’s a method of connection. It unites students through teamwork, boosts self-esteem, and creates bridges between languages and cultures. Whether through classroom projects, after-school programs, or school-wide showcases, Pina’s integration of dance reminds us that movement is a universal language—one that speaks to the heart of who we are as individuals and as a global community.
Without further ado, enjoy the Grade 4 Colombian Cumbia Dance Crew!