Local music trio 297Strings instrumental music Aruba has released a new instrumental production featuring soft, melodic arrangements that highlight Aruba’s traditional string instruments and cultural sound.
The trio consists of Jeremy Dijkhoff on the cuarta, Rubin Ponson on mandolin, and Ivan Croes on bass. Together, they perform under the name 297 Strings, symbolizing “the strings of Aruba” and reflecting the island’s musical heritage through instrumental interpretations.
The group was formed with the concept of performing in intimate, enclosed venues such as restaurants and hotels, offering live Aruban music that is pleasant, refined, and accessible to both locals and visitors. Over time, 297 Strings has expanded its presence, performing at local cultural events, commemorations, the National Library, Cas di Cultura, hotels, restaurants, and even on several occasions in Curaçao.
297 Strings released its first production in 2020 and has since launched three recordings featuring both traditional and popular music, including local rhythms and international classics. In 2023, the trio also released a Christmas-themed album titled “Noche Buena,” featuring classic holiday songs.
In January 2026, during the Carnival season, the trio released its fourth production, titled “Cuerdenan di Aruba.” The album features eight instrumental tracks, with a strong emphasis on newly composed Aruban music. While the production includes well-known classics such as “El Bodeguero,” “Alma Llanera,” and a medley of Aruban songs for national celebrations, its standout feature is the original compositions inspired by local rhythms.
New compositions on the album include “Cuerdenan di Aruba” (danza), “Linda” (waltz), “Saturno” (calypso), “Soraida” (waltz), and “Kenepa” (tumba), which serves as the promotional track and is accompanied by a music video available on YouTube.
According to the trio, the goal of this production is to encourage greater appreciation and presence of Aruba’s traditional music in local homes and cultural spaces. 297 Strings expressed pride in representing Aruban musical heritage and reaffirmed their commitment to preserving and promoting local music for both residents and visitors.
The album “Cuerdenan di Aruba” is available on USB memory stick directly from the band members. Interested listeners can also place orders via WhatsApp by contacting Linda at 730-1214.
