Traditional Purépecha Music

Traditional Purépecha music has its roots in pre-Hispanic times, during which the missionaries used music, dance, song, and theater as teaching resources to carry out their evangelization. 

Traditional Purépecha Music in Pátzcuaro, Michoacán.

Trumpet, flute, and organ are some of the musical instruments that were gradually incorporated. This provoked a melding between the European religious music that came with the Augustinian Friars in the 16th century, and that already existing in the music of the Purépecha communities.

Traditional Purépecha Music

Traditional Purépecha music is preserved today in various communities in Michoacan. Although new generations listen to various musical rhythms, members of the Purépecha community is committed to preserve and strengthen this artistic form.

Traditional Purepecha Music in Patzcuaro, Michoacán

Music has been an important part of Purépecha life, and is a deeply ingrained tradition that identifies them as a people proud of their roots. The most representative of the Purépecha music genres include the son, abajeño, and the pirekua.

 Dances of Michoacán

 

Son – or “little regional sounds – are happy, uplifting instrumental songs.

It is believed that abajeño is a product of the Tierra Caliente region in Michoacán.  It is instrumental music performed by ensembles, frequently with dancers.

Pirekua gained international recognition in 2010 when it acquired the status of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO.  Pirekua is the traditional song of the Purépecha, and is usually sung with a slow and lilting rhythm. The lyrics of these songs immortalize things such as historical events, love, and milestones.  Pirekuas also serve to establish and strengthen links between families and communities.

 Pirekuas: Traditional Purepecha Music

Traditional Purepecha music, is used primarily in religious festivals, as are dances which are executed in the various religious holidays.  But there are also secular examples of double steps, polkas, waltzes.

 Dances of Michoacán

On your next visit to Pátzcuaro, don't be surprised if, directly opposite our Hotel Mansion Iturbe in the Plaza Vasco de Quiroga, you find yourself surrounded by these types of music. In our magical village, traditions are preserved and there is always some festivity to celebrate.

*Text, pictures and videos property of Hotel Mansión Iturbe.

We invite you to check more post in our blog, you will find more information about Pátzcuaro and the surrounding area. 

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