09 Jul The Music of Panama
Típico, the music of Panama
There is music in the air! It is noticeable that the Panamanians love music. At all times and if possible just a touch louder than we sometimes are accustom too. From local taxis to public buses, department stores to local markets, we can hear the people enjoying their favorite tunes.
The types of music found in Panamá are as diverse as the ethnic backgrounds and the sounds are a reflection of the cultural influences. You will hear the distinct sounds of Salsa, Merengue, Cumbia or Reggae(Reggaeton) everywhere. But it is safe to say, that the folkloric típico (also called pindín) is the all time favorite for most Panameños today. And in case you are not familiar with típico yet, as soon as you hear an accordion and some yodeling, that’s it.. that’s típico.
In the early years of típico the band included a violin, a guitar, one or two drums and a triangle. Also either maracas or churucas.
With the arrival of the Europeans the accordion found its way into the country. It was quickly added into the the folkloric bands, replacing the violin. While in the early years the típico songs where mostly played in the interior, with many artists from the Herrera and Los Santos providences originating, it is now the music of the entire country.
One of the most entertaining stars of típico are the siblings Samy & Sandra Sandoval. Born and raised in Chitre these two started performing live in a very early age (9 and 11 years old). Samy won his first talent contests with his accordion when he was 11. During those years the folkloric sounds where not as popular and condemned as “cholo”, meaning redneck.
Those times have changed and the duo Samy & Sandra have been given a lot of credit in making the typical music of the interior the most popular sounds throughout Panamá. Today típico is known worldwide and fans of the sounds of Panamá can be found all over the planet.
Samy &Sandra Sandoval (photo credit FB)