The Legacy of Casimiro Camacho: A Heartfelt Farewell
Fuerteventura and the broader Canary Islands are in mourning as they bid farewell to Casimiro Camacho, a luminary of the Archipelago’s folklore. This gifted timplista passed away on the night of March 8, at the age of 94, leaving behind a monumental legacy in the realm of music and an indelible sorrow in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing him.
The Tanatorio Cira Ruiz in Puerto del Rosario will remain open throughout today, March 9, where family and friends can pay their respects. A mass will precede the funeral tomorrow, March 10, at 12:00 PM in the Iglesia de Santo Domingo de Guzmán located in Tetir, with a gathering at the tanatorio beforehand. Our condolences extend especially to his beloved wife, Auxiliadora, and their daughters, María and Cristina.
Early Life and Introduction to Music
Casimiro Camacho López, affectionately dubbed “El rey del timple” (The King of the Timple), was born in Lajares in 1932 to a modest family. Surrounded by timples, guitars, and bandurrias from an early age, it was evident that music would play a pivotal role in his life. His father, Pedro Camacho, also a musician, greatly influenced his passion for music, which blossomed as he mastered various instruments including the guitar and bandurria.
The Role of a Pioneer
What sets Camacho apart in the annals of Canary Island music history is his role as a pioneer. His unparalleled mastery transformed the perception of the timple, elevating it from a mere accompaniment instrument to a recognized solo performer. His warm demeanor and magnetic presence drew people to him, not only to experience his music but also to share in the joy of his storytelling and humor.
A Trailblazing Artist
Despite being known later in life primarily as a popular artist rather than a concert musician, Camacho’s impressive tenure in music remains unquestionable. As a member of the trio Los Paraguayos, he captivated audiences in Madrid, Barcelona, France, and Italy. His path intertwined with various musicians across Spain, including fellow Canarian artists.
One defining moment in his career occurred in May 1962 at the seventh Semana de Canarias in Madrid, an event dedicated to Fuerteventura. This concert was particularly memorable as it marked the first time the timple was showcased on Spanish television. Journalist Antonio Betancort recounted that the timple Casimiro played was the very first of its kind broadcasted, albeit the Canary Islands would not receive television signals until 1964.
Honors and Commemorations
Throughout his life, Camacho received numerous accolades for his contributions to music. A notable return to the stage came in 1999, marking 30 years since his last public performance, where he played alongside José Antonio Ramos, Benito Cabrera, and El Colorao at a heartfelt recognition ceremony held by the Town Hall of Puerto del Rosario.
The outpouring of respect culminated last year, in 2022, with the Town Hall of La Oliva commissioning a bust in his honor in Lajares, alongside tributes organized by the Cabildo de Fuerteventura. A book documenting his legacy and a concert dedicated to him were also part of this celebration, while the Insular School of Music named its Timple Classroom after him.
A Musical Influence
Regarded alongside legendary Canarian timplistas like Domingo Rodríguez “El Colorao” and Totoyo Millares, Camacho’s influence permeated the music of his contemporaries and the generations that followed. During a 2006 tribute concert, Benito Cabrera articulated the deep respect shared among the artists, expressing the hope of living up to the legacy that Camacho left behind.
El Colorao expressed his gratitude and admiration, stating, “I had the fortune to enjoy and learn from the art of Casimiro. Art goes beyond formal teaching.”
Remembering Casimiro Camacho
In this time of mourning, community members and music enthusiasts alike remember Casimiro Camacho not just as a pioneer of the timple, but as a jovial soul who endeared himself to many. His spirit, humor, and unmatched talent will echo through the music of the Canary Islands for generations to come, securing his place as an everlasting beacon in the rich tapestry of Canarian folklore.
Busto de Casimiro Camacho en Lajares
