The classical huapango is characterized by a complex rhythmic structure mixing duple and triple metres which reflect the intricate steps of the dance.
When the players sing (in a duet, in a falsetto tone), the violin stops, and the zapateado (the rhythm provided by heels hitting the floor) softens.
A very popular huapango is El querreque, in which two singers alternate pert and funny repartées.
The instrumentation of this type of ensemble consists of accordion, bajo sexto, double bass, drums and saxophone.
Famous songs include "Rogaciano el huapanguero", "Cucurrucucú paloma" and "Malagueña".