Honoring a Master of the Timple: Casimiro Camacho López
Fuerteventura recently celebrated a heartfelt tribute to one of its legendary figures in folk music, Casimiro Camacho López, affectionately born in Lajares in 1932. This tribute wasn’t just a formality; it was a vibrant gathering filled with emotions, music, and respect for a man whose fingers have lovingly coaxed melodies from the timple, the traditional Canary Island string instrument.
A Star-Studded Gathering
The event attracted notable folk musicians and parranders from various islands within the Canary Archipelago, all eager to pay homage to Camacho. Among the attendees was the celebrated singer María Mérida from El Hierro, nearing her 90th birthday. Their shared history goes back to 1953 when Mérida accompanied Camacho in his musical debut at the Teatro Pérez Galdós in Las Palmas.
The initiative for this homage stemmed from fellow timple player Domingo Luís Rodríguez, known as El Colorao. Through his television program, P´a la Cantina, broadcasted on Tindaya Televisión, Rodríguez aimed to recognize the depth of Camacho’s contribution to the traditional music of the Canaries.
The Power of Collaboration
The evening resonated with the harmonious sounds of various folk artists, including Juan Valerón from Gran Canaria, José Vicente Pérez, Colacho Toledo from Lanzarote, and others. Each musician brought their unique style, weaving together an unforgettable tapestry of sound through the timple, guitar, and their beautiful voices, creating a true celebration of Canarian folklore.
An Emotional Performance
One of the night’s highlights was when Casimiro Camacho himself took to the stage, timple in hand, to perform alongside Mérida. The audience was captivated when she passionately declared, “Let folklore not die!” Her words rang true, emphasizing the need to preserve their cultural heritage. Mérida shared her warm sentiments about Camacho, describing him as “the simplest and most human person” she has ever known, praising not only his musical talents but also his enormous heart.
Legacy of a Folkloric Innovator
Elías Rodríguez, a biographer of Camacho, has noted the uniqueness of Casimiro’s playing style. His strumming and plucking techniques are said to be incomparable, infusing the timple with a rhythmic flair that captures the essence of Canarian musical tradition. This acknowledgment highlights Camacho’s contributions to the folk scene, serving as both inspiration and guide for many aspiring musicians.
The Roots of a Musical Journey
Casimiro’s relationship with music began in childhood, fostered by a family steeped in tradition. Growing up in Lajares, he learned the ropes from his father, Pedro Camacho, who instilled in him a love for traditional music. His early mentor, Antonio Chocho, further deepened his connection with the timple. At just nine years old, he was already performing at local festivals and gatherings, solidifying his place in the heart of the community.
Reflecting on his beginnings, Casimiro shares a fond memory of sneaking peeks at his father’s guitar, hidden away in a locked wardrobe. With naivety and determination, he would quietly unseal the wardrobe and practice in solitude, emulating the tunes he heard from his father. His joy upon mastering the isa majorera was a defining moment in his early musical life.
A Dream to Play the Timple
Casimiro’s early ambition was palpable; he meticulously saved his pocket money in a makeshift bank, crafted from a condensed milk can, in pursuit of his dream timple. After a year of gathering coins, he joyfully acquired his first instrument, marking a significant milestone in his musical journey.
A Broader Musical Horizon
In 1952, Camacho moved to Gran Canaria to further his musical education. His passion took him beyond the islands, traveling through Madrid, Barcelona, Italy, and France, where he introduced audiences to the enchanting sound of the timple. In 1974, he settled in Fuerteventura, continuing to perform in hotels and restaurants, while also nurturing the next generation by teaching timple and guitar.
In addition to his musical pursuits, Camacho has also engaged in hunting and fishing, showcasing his multifaceted character and contributing to the rich tapestry of island life.
This tribute was not merely a celebration of a man’s achievements but a reminder of the rich cultural heritage embodied in Canarian folk music, with Casimiro Camacho López at its heart.
