The cantiñas have their roots in the popular Andalusian festivities of the 19th century, where gypsy traditions and African influences were mixed. These celebrations, known as “cantes de ida y vuelta”, gave rise to the first bars and lyrics of the cantiñas.
This cante is native to Cádiz and the ports of its Bay, although there are also styles, such as that of Pinini (an artist from the late 19th and early 20th centuries), which are from towns such as Utrera and Lebrija.
They are generally short coplas, supposedly related to the old jota of Cádiz. They are performed to the same meter as bulerías or soleá but, melodically, they are structured on major keys.The lyrics of the cantiñas are usually cheerful and festive, although they can also deal with romantic and everyday themes.
Within the broad spectrum of the cantiñas, there are several sub-genres and variants that make them richer and more diverse. Some of the most outstanding are the alegrías, the romeras, the mirabrás, the caracoles and the polos. Each of these variants has its own melodic and lyrical peculiarities, but they all share that joyful spirit.
Cantiñas in artists of yesterday and today
Throughout the history of flamenco, there have been great maestros and maestras who have left an indelible legacy in the world of cantiñas. Figures such as Juan Talega, Manuel Torre, La Niña de los Peines, Camarón de la Isla and Antonio Mairena have performed them masterfully.
And Rosalía, Diego el Cigala and Tomatito have incorporated elements of cantiñas into their compositions, keeping this flamenco palo alive and bringing it to new audiences around the world.
The definitive course on cantiñas
In this trailer you can see a summary of the content of this intensive, but no less enjoyable, course on this flamenco palo. Also about its derivatives, such as alegrías, romeras, mirabrás or caracoles. There is no lack of references to Mairena and the great Chano Lobato, with a section on dance and choreographic structure taught in a practical way.