Dance & Music Illustration

Maya Empire for Kids
Dance & Music

 Music was played on many occasions, from ballgames to warfare to festivals. They made instruments out of shells, clay, wood, bone. Instruments included trumpets, drums, flutes, rattles, and whistles.

The Maya created over 1,000 different dances. They loved dance! They danced the Monkey, the Grandfather, the Shadow of the Trees, and more! Drums, turtle rattles, flutes, whistles, and shell instruments accompanied the dancers.

Costumes were creative, colorful, and as noisy as possible. Little bells and rattles were sewn onto costumes. People danced alone, in pairs, and in groups.

Dance had a purpose besides enjoyment. Dance was used by the ancient Maya to communicate with their gods. Dance was used to give thanks and as prayers.

Maya Dance

Maya Games

Mayas for Kids