Parranda Janubio celebrated its 40th anniversary at the Víctor Fernández Gopar Folkloric Encounter, held in Las Breñas, municipality of Yaiza. The event paid tribute to the popular poet known as 'El Salinero' and recognized the efforts of those who preserve Canarian musical tradition.
The group, originally from Las Breñas, offered a repertoire focused on local identity and the works of authors such as Víctor Fernández Gopar, Aquilino García, and Jaime Quesada. The choice of this encounter to commemorate their trajectory was not coincidental, given the group's close ties to disseminating Fernández Gopar's poetry.
One of the night's highlights was the performance of 'Canto a Las Breñas,' an original composition by the parranda's director, Clotildo Martín. The piece, in the style of Punto Cubano, extols the creativity, work, and tradition of the locality, valuing the contribution of its poets, artisans, and families.
Parranda Janubio was founded in 1986 at the old teleclub in Las Breñas, driven by residents to preserve traditional Canarian music. Today, with historical figures like its director Clotildo Martín and soloist Leonardo Cabrera, it remains a cultural benchmark in southern Lanzarote.
The group's role in passing down folklore to new generations was highlighted, serving as a learning space for young artists. Clotildo Martín thanked the Yaiza City Council for its support of the Municipal Folklore School, which is crucial for generational succession.
Following Janubio's performance, the Acatife Cultural Association, founded in 1983 in Teguise, took the stage. They performed pieces such as 'El Diablo de Timanfaya,' dedicated to the consequences of the eruption in La Palma, and songs like 'Sorondongo al labrador' and 'Folías del alma'.
The Councilor for Festivals of Yaiza, Daniel Medina, emphasized the importance of such initiatives for the municipality's cultural memory and recognizing those who keep popular traditions alive. The night concluded with a popular dance accompanied by Malpaís and Son del Norte.
