Spanish music has a rich and diverse history that spans from medieval times to the present day. This music has been influenced by a variety of cultures, including Arabic, Jewish, and Gypsy music, resulting in a distinctive sound that is unique throughout the world.
Spanish medieval music focused mainly on religious music, with songs and hymns being sung in Latin in churches. In the 16th century, Spanish music experienced a great expansion thanks to the growing popularity of popular dances and songs. Spanish folk and popular music was characterized by the use of traditional instruments such as the guitar, the lute, the violin and the castanet.
During the 17th century, Spanish music was influenced by the Baroque, and some of the most important works of Spanish classical music were produced in this period. Composers such as Antonio de Cabezón, Sebastián Durón, and Juan Hidalgo wrote music for keyboards and organs that became an integral part of Baroque music.
In the 18th century, Spanish music underwent a renewal thanks to the movement known as the Enlightenment, which advocated education and the development of knowledge. The music of this period was characterized by a focus on simplicity and clarity, with an increased attention to melody and harmony.
In the early 19th century, Spanish music was influenced by romantic music, with composers such as Isaac Albéniz and Manuel de Falla creating music that became an integral part of the classical music repertoire. Spanish romantic music was characterized by great emotionality and an appreciation for Spanish cultural roots.
In the 20th century, Spanish music became an important part of Spanish popular culture, with the emergence of genres such as copla, flamenco, and Spanish pop. Spanish pop music was characterized by a distinctive sound that was fused with elements of traditional Spanish music.
Flamenco, in particular, became one of the most popular forms of music in Spain and spread throughout the world. With roots in the gypsy culture, flamenco was characterized by the Spanish guitar and the soulful voice of the singers. Flamenco is still popular today and has influenced a large number of musicians around the world.
The rich Spanish musical history has caused several Twitter threads in which it is a question of voting for the best Spanish song in history, among which three stand out:
Extremoduro: Second movement: The outside (Official Audio)
Paco de LucÃa: “Between two waters”
Nino Bravo: “A kiss and a flower”