In 1972, in Valladolid, José Luis Gómez, Celso Garrido, and the Rivera brothers - José María and Miguel Ángel - founded Tahona. This musical group has since become a significant force in Castilian-Leonese traditional music. Over the past five decades, Tahona has gracefully navigated the changing cultural landscape while remaining committed to preserving and sharing the rich heritage of Spanish folk music on both local and international stages.

Preserving Spanish Folk Music Heritage on Global Stages

Founding and Early Years

Tahona's inception in Valladolid marked the beginning of a remarkable journey. José Luis Gómez, Celso Garrido, and the Rivera brothers brought together their musical talents to create a sound that would resonate for generations. Their dedication to traditional music was evident from the start, as they set out to capture the essence of Castilian-Leonese culture through their performances.During this early period, Tahona began to build a reputation for themselves. Their unique blend of instruments and vocal styles attracted the attention of music enthusiasts both in Valladolid and beyond. They started to perform at local festivals and events, sharing their music with a growing audience.

The "La Transición" Era and Influence

Emerging during "La Transición," a time of significant political and cultural transformation in Spain, Tahona became a cornerstone of the traditional music revival movement. Their repertoire and performances reflected the spirit and history of Castilla y León, a region known for its vibrant folk culture.Tahona's influence extended far beyond Valladolid as they embarked on tours across Europe. Their music became a symbol of Spanish cultural identity, captivating audiences with its authenticity and passion. Their performances served as a reminder of the importance of preserving traditional music in the face of modernization.

Musical Talents within Tahona

José María Rivera's vocals, guitar, and dulcimer skills added a rich texture to Tahona's sound. Miguel Ángel Rivera's vocals, flutes, and percussion brought a lively and dynamic element. José Luis Gómez's vocals, guitar, and lute provided a solid foundation. Emilio Bernardo's accordion and bandurria added a touch of traditional Spanish flavor. Alfonso Corral's violin added a melodic and elegant touch. Eugenio Rodríguez's vocals, dulzaina, cromorno, oboe, and cello completed the ensemble, creating a diverse and captivating musical experience.

Discography Highlights

Tahona's discography is a testament to their musical excellence. Their 1978 album "Tahona" introduced their unique sound to the world. "Aunque Me Des Veinte Duros" (1979) showcased their ability to tell stories through music. "A la Lumbre del Portal" (1983) captured the essence of their local roots. "Con la Música a Otra Parte" (1985) demonstrated their versatility. "En Castellano" (1987) celebrated the Spanish language. "Vienen Como Con Vino" (1992) brought a new energy to their music. "El Vuelo de la Cigüeña" (1995) was a masterpiece that touched the hearts of listeners. "Himno Oficial Real Valladolid" (1996) paid homage to their hometown. "Compañeros de Viaje" (1998) and "A la Lumbre del Portal II" (1998) further expanded their musical repertoire. And their 2009 album "Relamidos" continued to showcase their talent and innovation.Angel Romero has dedicated his life to musical exploration. His efforts included the creation of two online portals, worldmusiccentral.org and musicasdelmundo.com. In addition, he is the co-founder of the Transglobal World Music Chart, a panel of world music DJs and writers that celebrates global sounds. He has also delved into the record business, producing world music studio albums and compilations. His works have appeared on Alula Records, Ellipsis Arts, Indígena Records and Music of the World.