"Las Tunas"

Music of Santiago de Compostela  

No, it is not that heavy, mercury-laden fish. In Spain, it has a long tradition stretching back into the Middle Ages.  Music is the essential character of the “Tuna.”  University students long ago would play for food, music and/or money.  Their songs were shared in the local taverns or under the windows of potential lovers.  Ah, the times they have so changed (remember the sixties?).  

Anyway, fast forward to the 21st century and drop yourself into one night in Santiago.  You have walked the Camino into the city, you’ve had your dinner and then begin to hear their serenade.  You walk across the plaza outside the cathedral to the sounds of Guantanamera.  Is this Cuba?  You walk under the arches and see a collection of musicians playing identifiable, and unidentifiable, instruments.  A crowd gathers and you are in the moment.  Maybe you dance. It is magical.  While you might be tired, the camaraderie and excitement keep you amid the merry-makers, and so, you stay.  This magical moment swirls around the arches and the moment becomes your moment.  

It is so special and should not be missed!  Next time you are in Spain…maybe on your own, maybe with us, be sure to find them. Next year, we enter Santiago de Compostela via the Portuguese Way to hear our “Tunas” again.