Masterpieces and history of folklore: An introduction to traditional music of the South American Andes
Traditional music of the South American Andes, known as “folklore.” The delicate tones of the quena and charango—woven by virtuosos such as Argentina’s Ariel Ramírez and Bolivia’s Ernesto Cavour—carry the region’s timeless history and rich culture into the present.
From the wistful “El Cóndor Pasa” to the passionate “Sin Ti,” masterpieces born of the Andean land continue to move hearts around the world.
We present these gems of music, alive with the heart and soul of South America.
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Masterpieces and history of folklore: An introduction to traditional music of the South American Andes (1–10)
while cryingRosu Karukasu
This is “While Crying,” written and composed by Ulises Hermosa, a member of the Bolivian folk group Los Kjarkas.
The original Spanish lyrics are about heartbreak, but they were plagiarized by Kaoma, a France-based group formed mainly by Brazilians, and spread worldwide as “Lambada.”
Soul of the PlainsPedro Eriasu Gutieres
Pedro Elías Gutiérrez’s composition Alma Llanera is considered the second national anthem of Venezuela.
It celebrates the spirit of the people living in the plains known as the Llanos.
Written in the popular Venezuelan joropo style, it is the most famous masterpiece of its kind.
imilitaryRosu Karukasu
A Bolivian folklore group that carries Andean traditions into the present, Los Kjarkas deliver a gem of a love song.
Their vocals, where sorrow and passion intertwine, blend beautifully with the traditional sounds of the quena and zampoña, weaving a deeply moving sonic world.
Featured on the album “El líder de los humildes,” this piece was released in 1998 and skillfully incorporates the rhythm of Bolivia’s traditional dance music, the tinku.
With vocals that powerfully convey a bittersweet yearning for a loved one and a majestic sound that seems to resonate from the Andean earth itself, it is a song that will resonate deeply with anyone troubled by love.
Masterpieces and History of Folklore: An Introduction to Traditional Music of the South American Andes (11–20)
CharyaErunesuto Kabūru
This remarkable performance, resonating with the melancholy and passion of the South American Andes, is by Ernesto Cavour from Bolivia.
Known as a legendary charango player, his music is a gem that conveys the soul of Andean traditional music to the present day.
The beautiful melodies woven from delicate tones and innovative techniques evoke the vast landscapes and rich cultures of South America.
Featured on the album Canto del Viento, this piece has continued to captivate music lovers around the world since its 1979 release.
Following his first visit to Japan in 1980, it received high acclaim there as well, inspiring many fans of folklore.
Please give it a listen on a calm evening or whenever you wish to soothe your heart.
I want to be your shadow.Rosu Romerosu
A jewel-like melody that conveys the essence of traditional South American music is gracefully performed by Los Romeros, the Spanish-American guitar quartet.
Founded in 1960 by Ceferino Romero and hailed as the “Royal Family of the Guitar,” they have performed around the world together with his three sons.
This work is a traditional piece in Venezuelan waltz form, notable for its distinctive interplay of 3/4 and 6/8 time signatures.
With a swaying vitality, feelings for a beloved are expressed through delicate guitar timbres, and the piece continues to be cherished by many as a masterpiece imbued with the heart and soul of South America.
Gray EyesUnya Ramosu
This is “Gray Eyes,” composed by Argentine musician and composer, and quena player, Uña Ramos.
It’s a well-known piece among folklore enthusiasts, characterized by its wistful melody.
In Japan, it has been covered by musicians such as Tokiko Kato, Ryoko Moriyama, and Ringo Sheena.
Cueca of the Coya peopleAntoniō Pantōha
The supreme artistry of a master steeped in Andean tradition.
The elegant dance music “Cueca” from northwestern Argentina, spun by Peru-born Antonio Pantoja, resonates deep in the heart.
Carried by the delicate timbre of the wooden quena, the life and spirit of the Kolla, Indigenous people of the Andean highlands, unfold quietly.
When he visited Japan in 1975, he performed this piece together with his beloved daughter Marta and charango player Jorge, captivating audiences.
Featured on the album “Coplas Quebradeñas,” this work, set to a gentle triple meter, leads us toward distant mountains.
It’s a piece to enjoy on a quiet night or a peaceful holiday, feeling the breeze of the Andes.