Final answer:
The Latin atmosphere in "America" from West Side Story is achieved with the instrumentation of bongos, congas, and claves (Answer A). These instruments are used to create the vibrant Latin rhythms reflective of the strong percussion component in Caribbean-influenced music such as salsa.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Latin atmosphere heard in "America" from West Side Story is achieved through the use of such South American instruments as bongos, congas, and claves. The correct answer to the question is A. bongos, congas, and claves. Leonard Bernstein incorporated these percussion instruments to evoke the vibrant rhythms and sounds associated with Latin music, which includes salsa tunes that originated from the Caribbean. Cuban music, such as salsa that has been shaped by African and Spanish cultural influences, often features a strong percussion component, including instruments like bongos, congas, and claves. While West Side Story faced criticism for its portrayal and representation of Latinx characters, the musical elements, particularly in the song "America," attempted to reflect the vitality of Latin American music.