Music, gender and identity: Fandangos and coplas del Romero

Abstract

This article explores the relationship between music and gender in the context of a festive ritual manifestation in the town of Almonaster la Real (Huelva). During the celebration of the Cross of May and in the acts prior to the feast day, the women cruceras lead the ritual and play the music that takes place in it, coplas del Romero and several styles of fandangos de la Cruz. We analyse the implications of gender in this musical activity, interpretive traditions, repertoire, expressive forms and meanings for the women of the two crosses or Almonaster brotherhoods. We examine how this musical practice contributes to affirming and articulating specific ideas, models and roles related to gender, that express and shape the group identity and personal identity of women in this context.