Costumbrismo
- The sound of Experiment
- Oct 22, 2024
- 7 min read
Updated: Oct 23, 2024
The bullring. Jose Jiménez Aranda. 1870.
Introduction Latin America
Latin America, this amazingly diverse and beautiful continental space, is a region that has been enriched with diverse cultural, historical and geographical features. Located in South America, it comprises 20 independent countries and three overseas territories, each of which carries its own unique cultural heritage and historical tradition. From the mountainous peaks of the Andes to the expanses of the Amazon forest, from the ancient Mayan pyramids in Mexico to the vibrant beaches of Brazil, Latin America is a cultural treasure distinguished by the variety of languages, traditions, rituals and expressions it hosts. This is also recognised for the diversity of peoples that inhabit it, with the presence of a mix of indigenous, European, African and other cultural influences that shape its diverse and unique identity. With a rich history, vibrant art, musical tradition, rich literary tradition and pioneering social dynamics, Latin America is an unforgettable destination for exploration and discovery. The late 19th century in Latin America marked a period of great change and challenges. During this era, Latin American countries experienced intense political and social upheaval. This period coincided with the liberation of many countries from Spanish and Portuguese colonialism, as well as with the rise of nationalist movements. Political changes have triggered a climate of search for identity and cultural identity. The late 19th century also saw an emphasis on education and the development of education systems, resulting in the emergence of a new educated elite that influenced the culture and arts of the region. This period was also important for the development of literature, painting and music, as new artists emerged who expressed the cultural heritage and identity of the region through their works. This period of the late 19th century contributed to the formation of a new intellectual and cultural identity in Latin America, which would influence the course of the region in the 20th century.
Introduction to the costumbrismo movement
The Costumbrismo movement was an artistic and literary movement that was mainly expressed in Latin America in the 19th century. The term "costumbrismo" comes from the word "costumbre" which means custom or habit, and aims to depict the daily life, customs and local traditions of the people. Costumbrismo focuses on depicting the local reality, with emphasis on the characteristics, manners and customs of the people living in specific areas. Through painting, literature and other artistic media, Costumbrismo highlighted Latin America's local identity and cultural diversity.
Historic Overview
The Costumbrismo movement emerged in the 19th century and was a reaction to mainstream European aesthetics and exotic approaches to art. The artists of the movement sought the depiction of real life and everyday scenes in Latin America. Costumbrismo highlighted the customs, habits and culture of the local population through painting, sculpture, literature and other artistic expressions. As regions and communities had their own specificities, Costumbrismo was a means of highlighting cultural diversity and conveying Latin American identity. In this way, Costumbrismo contributed to the recognition and appreciation of local tradition and culture.
Arts
The Costumbrismo movement had a significant influence on various art forms. In painting, artists depicted the cultural and social elements of local life with a realistic approach, capturing customs, costumes, landscapes and everyday scenery. In literature, the authors highlighted the local stories, customs and traditions of the people, creating descriptions and characteristics of persons in order to depict local identity. Also, in music, composers were inspired by traditional musical forms and rhythms, incorporating elements of local music into their own compositions. Costumbrismo enhanced the recognition and appreciation of Latin American cultural heritage and contributed to the capture of local identity through various artistic expressions.
Notable representatives
The main representatives of the Costumbrismo movement in Latin America include notable artists and writers who were left to be inspired by local culture and tradition. In the field of painting, artists José María Velasco and Juan Manuel Blanes depicted the local nature and landscapes of their countries, while artists Rufino Tamayo and José Clemente Orozco represented the political and social issues of the time with a realistic approach. In literature, Peruvian writer Ricardo Palma, Colombian writer Jorge Isaacs and Argentine writer José Hernández created works that highlighted local life, manners and customs. These artists emerged as the main representatives of the Costumbrismo movement and contributed to the creation of a vivid depiction of local culture and everyday life in Latin America.
Music
Latin American music during the late 19th century reflects the diversity and culturally rich heritage of the region. Each country expresses its unique musical tradition, influenced by history, language, cultural factors and ethnic influences. In Mexico, music of the late nineteenth century included a rich mix of indigenous, European, and folk influences. Traditional Mexican genres such as mariachi, son, and various indigenous musical traditions played an important role in shaping the music scene. The influence of Spanish colonial music and European classical music also contributed to the country's diverse musical landscape. The music of late nineteenth-century Brazil incorporated a variety of styles, including samba, bossa nova, and the music of the Brazilian rural working class known as "modinha". African rhythms and melodies blend with Portuguese influences to create a live tapestry music. In addition, classical music was influenced by European musical traditions. In Cuba, the end of the nineteenth century saw the rise of the "Trova" movement, which combined Spanish, African and Caribbean influences. The iconic "Son Cubano" was also developed during this period, combining African rhythms with melodic elements of Spanish music. At the end of the nineteenth century, Peruvian music underwent major transformations that reflected the cultural and social dynamics of the country. This period witnessed a combination of indigenous, European and African influences, creating a diverse and vibrant musical landscape. A prominent species that appeared during this period was the "Marinera". Originating from coastal areas, particularly Lima, Marinera combined indigenous styles with Spanish and Afro-Peruvian influences. It contained intricate legs, lively melodies, and poetic lyrics that often celebrated love and national pride. Marinera remains one of Peru's most beloved traditional dances and continues to be performed in a variety of settings, including festivals and cultural events. Another important musical genre of the late nineteenth century in Peru was "Huayno". Originating in the highlands of the Andes, the Huayno incorporated indigenous rhythms, traditional instruments such as the charango (a small stringed instrument) and Quechua or Aymara lyrics. It reflected the experiences and traditions of indigenous communities, conveying stories of everyday life, nature and cultural heritage. Huayno has evolved over time and continues to be an important part of Peru's folk music repertoire. During this period, Western classical music also gained popularity among Peru's elite and middle class. Works by European composers were performed in concert halls and theaters, and local composers began to appear, combining European musical techniques with Peruvian elements. Notable composers such as José María Valle Riestra and Pedro Ximénez Abril were influential figures in promoting classical music and composing pieces that reflected Peruvian themes and styles. The late nineteenth century Peru witnessed a fusion of various musical influences, resulting in a rich and diverse musical heritage. The blending of indigenous, European and African elements created unique musical expressions that celebrated Peru's cultural diversity and reflected its historical and social context.
Influence of the movement on Music
As far as Latin American music is concerned, the influence of the Costumbrismo movement was significant and varied. The musicians of the time expressed through their music the traditions, values and everyday life of the people. The rhythms, melodies and timbres reflected the local tradition and the experiences of the community. Musical works depicting everyday scenes and types of people from various social classes were often performed. Traditional rhythms and dances such as buttons, tango, bolero and kumba included elements of Costumbrismo. Through this musical expression, a connection was created between the audience and everyday reality, thus enhancing the identity and assimilation of the local culture.
Notable Compositions
The Condor Passes - Leo Rojas
Daniel Alomia Robles (January 3, 1871 – July 17, 1942) was a Peruvian composer and ethnomusicologist. He is best known for composing the song Condor Passes as part of a tharzuela – a musical work that alternates between spoken and singing parts – of the same name. This song was based on Andean folk songs and is probably the best-known Peruvian song, partly due to the worldwide success the melody achieved when it was used by Simon and Garfunkel as their music for If I could, although this song has different lyrics.
La Llorona - Angela Aguilar
Angela Aguillar (born October 8, 2003) is a Mexican-American singer. She was born in Los Angeles while her mother accompanied her father, Pepe Aguilar, on the tour. Aguilar gained notable recognition after her performance of The Crying Woman at the 19th annual Latin Grammy Awards in 2019. The Crying Woman is a Mexican folk song derived from the legend of the same name. There are many versions of the song. Its origins are unclear, but, around 1941, composer Andres Henestrosa reported hearing the song on the Tehuantepec Isthmus. He published the song and perhaps added to the existing lyrics.
Full Moon Tune - Simon Diaz
Simon Diaz (August 8, 1928 – February 19, 2014) was a Venezuelan singer and Grammy Award-winning composer of Venezuelan music. The work full moon melody is a classic song that talks about the calm beauty of the full moon.
Fiesta de san Benito - INTI ILLIMANI
Inti-Illimani is an instrumental and vocal Latin American folk music ensemble from Chile. The band was formed in 1967 by a group of students and gained widespread popularity in Chile for their song Venceremos, which became the anthem of Salvador Allende's Popular Unity government.
The Game - Victor Jara
Victor Hara (28 September 1932 – 16 September 1973) was a Chilean teacher, theatre director, poet, singer-songwriter and communist political activist. He developed Chilean theatre by directing a wide range of plays, ranging from locally produced plays to world classics, as well as the experimental work of playwrights such as Anne Gelico. He also played a central role among the neo-folkloric musicians who founded the Nueva canción chilena movement. This led to a revolt of new sounds in popular music during the administration of President Salvador Allende.
La Petenera - Pedro Soler & Gaspar Claus
It is flamenco palo at a meter of 12 beats. It is identical to the Spanish sarabanda and jácara dances of the 16th century. The lyrics are in 4-line verses. It is believed to be a very old style of singing, as already mentioned by writer Serafín Estébanez Calderón in the mid-19th century, and adherence to the rhythm of the old sarabanda seems to confirm its age. Several theories have been proposed as to its origin, although there is not enough evidence to support any of them.
La Trunca Norte
Mercedes Sosa (9 July 1935 – 4 October 2009) was an Argentine singer who gained fame not only in Latin America but also internationally. She also became known as "the voice of voiceless people."
Goatherd's Tune
Simón Díaz was one of Venezuela's most popular singers and comedians who also gained worldwide recognition for his skill as a player of the cuatro, a guitar-like instrument.
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