Celebrating Casimiro Camacho López: The King of Timple
Early Aspirations
Casimiro Camacho López, affectionately known as the King of Timple, was born in 1932 in Lajares, Fuerteventura. Interestingly, while many associate him with the traditional Canarian string instrument, the timple, Camacho originally aspired to be a violinist. In his own words, he expressed a distaste for the sound of violins during his youth, likening them to “a pig squealing.” This humorous yet candid observation reveals the young musician’s discerning ear and his resolve to seek a different musical path.
The Influence of Music
Camacho’s fascination with music ignited in the vibrant parrandas of Lajares, where folk traditions were rich and deeply rooted. His family played a significant role in nurturing his musical inclinations. His father, Pedro Camacho, would often improvise tunes on the timple, and he had an uncle who directed a band in Cuba. These familial influences provided young Casimiro with a rich musical tapestry to draw inspiration from.
A Shift to the Violin
Relocating to Las Palmas de Gran Canaria brought Camacho closer to a broader musical world. It was during this time that he encountered the sound of the violin played by Pablo Zárate, which reignited his interest in string instruments. Despite this newfound passion for the violin, destiny had other plans. He eventually returned to his roots with the timple, leading him to become an iconic figure in its preservation and performance.
A Legacy Built on Tradition
By the 1960s, Casimiro Camacho had firmly established himself as a preeminent timple player and teacher. His impact resonated through countless students, including Domingo Rodríguez, affectionately known as El Colorao. This mentorship not only helped to elevate the timple’s status but also created a continuum of artistic expression that celebrated Canarian folklore.
A 90-Year Celebration
In January 2022, as the nearly 90-year-old musician was honored by El Colorao through a tribute, Camacho reflected on his journey. He candidly shared that while he had become somewhat distant from regular performances, he still cherished playing the timple on special occasions, often accompanied by guitar—a testament to his enduring passion for music.
Honoring His Contributions
The cultural significance of Camacho’s work was recognized by the Consejería de Cultura del Cabildo, which sponsored a tribute in his honor. This celebration comprised three pivotal events held on the same day. The day began with the unveiling of a bust in his hometown square of Lajares, graciously sponsored by Faycan Motor Toyota. It continued with the launch of the biography “El rey del timple” by historian Elías Rodríguez Rodríguez, which chronicles Camacho’s life, and concluded with a heartfelt concert at the Palacio de Congresos in Puerto del Rosario.
Emblematic of Canarian Culture
Throughout his life, Casimiro Camacho López personified the vibrancy and resilience of Canarian cultural identity. Through his music, he not only championed the timple but also served as a living link between generations of musicians. His story is one of passion, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to the traditions that shaped him.
