Celebrating a Cultural Icon: El Cabildo de Fuerteventura Honors Casimiro Camacho
In a heartfelt tribute to one of Fuerteventura’s musical legends, El Cabildo de Fuerteventura, through its Culture Department, organized an array of events celebrating the timeless talent of Casimiro Camacho, the renowned timple player from Majoreros. The highlight of this homage took place on a vibrant Saturday morning with the unveiling of a sculptural bust in Lajares, made possible thanks to the collaboration of the town council of La Oliva.
The Bust: A Tribute in Art
The bust, skillfully crafted from clay and later reproduced in marmolina, was the brainchild of local artist Blas Sánchez. He was not only the creator of this beautiful sculpture but also took part in the event by performing a captivating piece on the violin, adding an auditory layer to the visually striking tribute. The unveiling ceremony was attended by prominent figures including Sergio Lloret López, the president of the Cabildo, alongside La Oliva’s mayor, Pilar González, and Rayco León, the Culture Counselor. Camacho himself graced the occasion, accompanied by family members and representatives from Toyota Faycan Motor, who contributed to the event’s success.
Words of Appreciation and Legacy
President Sergio Lloret López praised the event, calling it “a well-deserved tribute to a life dedicated to enhancing our culture and traditions.” He articulated Camacho’s significant role in elevating the timple from a mere accompaniment to a recognized solo instrument. He acknowledged Camacho’s generous spirit in sharing his craft through educational efforts, ensuring his legacy continues to inspire future generations. Mayor Pilar González echoed his sentiments, expressing gratitude to everyone who made the event possible and recognizing Casimiro’s vital role as a cultural ambassador for the municipality of La Oliva.
Rayco León, the Culture Counselor, reflected on the importance of the tribute, stating, “We are fulfilling a pending task by honoring a great reference, even dubbed the king of the timple.” He highlighted Camacho’s pivotal influence in bringing traditional folklore to broader audiences and his impact on Majorero culture.
Casimiro Camacho: A Musical Journey
Casimiro Camacho López has become an iconic figure in Fuerteventura and a seminal musician in Majorero culture. Born in 1932 and raised in Lajares in a family of musicians, his early exposure to music cultivated a deep passion and curiosity. This led to his ascent as the “king of the timple,” a title reflecting his extraordinary skill and influence.
As part of the renowned group Los Paraguayos, Camacho successfully represented the Canarian timple in prestigious venues beyond the Archipelago, from Madrid to France and Italy. His performances left an indelible mark on the Canarian folklore scene, distinguished by his unique strumming and plucking style. Beyond performing, he also imparted his knowledge as a timple teacher in Las Palmas, mentoring notable artists including Domingo Rodríguez, known as El Colorao.
A Celebratory Book Launch
The tribute to Casimiro Camacho extended beyond ceremonies into literature, with the launch of the book Casimiro Camacho López, Rey del Timple authored by Elías Rodríguez Rodríguez. Hosted at the Palacio de Formación y Congresos, the book was published by the Fuerteventura Cabildo’s Publication Service and was presented as part of the cultural tribute to Camacho.
During the launch, Camacho shared anecdotes about his friendship with Elías Rodríguez, while Domingo Rodríguez El Colorao emphasized the cultural amalgamation present in Camacho’s music, which helped shape a unique and recognizable sound in folklore. Elías Rodríguez, who dedicated many hours to compiling stories and memories about Camacho, expressed his admiration for the artist’s enduring impact.
The Concert: A Musical Celebration
The programming also included a concert dedicated to Camacho, featuring talented improvisers such as Yeray Rodríguez, Eduardo Duque, and Luz Mila Valerón, along with prominent timple players like Benito Cabrera and Domingo Rodríguez. Guitarists Luis Alejandro García and Juan Carlos Pérez Brito added their flair to the performances, while soloists including José Manuel Ramos, Fabiola Socas, Ayla Rodríguez, and Luz Mila Valerón showcased their musical prowess.
This musical celebration served not only as a tribute to Casimiro Camacho but also as an affirmation of the rich cultural heritage that connects the people of Fuerteventura and honors their musical roots. The legacy of Camacho continues to resonate, inspiring new generations to appreciate and cultivate the unique sound of the timple.
