CUR TravelGuide 02.04.20 - Flipbook - Page 35
TAMBÚ
Tambú, or Curaçao blues, began as an outlet for slaves to express their
sorrow and frustration. Instruments are simple, common implements
like the ‘tambú’ (drum), ‘kachu’ (cow horn), ‘agan’ (a piece of metal or
ploughshare), and ‘chapi’ (hoe). The music is accompanied by hand
clapping, usually by women, and African dancing with asymmetrical
body movements and hip rotation. These days, tambú is popular
throughout and even the younger generation is gripped by its music.
The lyrics are often socially critical, indirect, filled with humor, double
meanings and metaphors.
CONTEMPORARY MUSIC
The traditional sounds of Curaçao can still be heard in today’s
contemporary music scene. While you’ll find plenty of local artists
performing in bars and on beaches, others are becoming world famous.
You can find internationally known Curaçaoan artists like Grammy
Award winning percussionist Pernell Saturnino, mezzo-soprano Tania
Kross, singer-songwriter Izaline Calister and pianists Wim Statius
Muller, Rudy Plaate, and Randal Corsen performing from time to time
at local venues or during the annual Curaçao North Sea Jazz Festival,
which attracts music lovers from all around the world.
CURAÇAO NORTH SEA JAZZ FESTIVAL
Each summer, a local edition of Holland’s renowned North Sea Jazz
Festival takes place in Curaçao, to the delight of locals and visitors
alike. Three days full of music spotlight local and international artists.
Previous years have seen the likes of Carlos Santana, Alicia Keys,
Sergio Mendes, John Legend, Bruno Mars, Ruben Blades, Stevie
Wonder, the late Prince, Usher and Enrique Iglesias. Who’s playing
this year? Check their website for the latest listings.
www.curacaonorthseajazz.com
35 • people and culture