The rythmic music of Spain has grown over many centuries and includes a variety of historical influences from ancient Iberian sounds to flamenco and pop. Spanish music has evolved and become an internationally important phenomenon. Living in the Costa Blanca you will undoubtedly experience the sounds of Spain in many forms from the Medievil rythms of the Moors and Christians Festivals to modern Christmas tunes, familiar flamenco and folk toe tapping beats and modern Spanish music with a latin pop feel.
Ancient inhabitants of the Iberian Penisula along the Costa Blanca coast included the Celts, Iberians and Phoenicians and their cultures introduced a variety of musical instruments including the lyre, flute and drum that were key to the development of musical traditions in Spain. The Romans, Moors and Visgoths later brought their own sounds and music begun to play an important role in celebrations, storytelling and religious ceremonies.
When the Moors landed in Spain in the 8th century they took over and dominated the country including the Costa Blanca for a few hundred years before the country was reclaimed by the Christians. As a result the influence of north African and Middle Eastern musicality can still be heard today. New instruments arrived including an oud which is similr to a lute and the rebec a bowed string instrument. The Islamic music introduced complex rythms and melodic scales that gave birth to a golden age of intricate classical music. The Muwashshah form of music combining hypnotic beats with poetry and melodic scales became an important art form in medieval Spain (Al-Andalus). The Al-Andalus period of music has most strongly influenced Andalusian classical music but, echos of these sound can be heard throughout Spain in more modern compositions.
Costa Blanca’s musical scene flourished during Medieval and Renaissance times with the re-conquest of the country liturgical music became very important and popular. As Christians reclaimed Spain Gregorian chants were practiced in monateries and churches while secular music was enjoyed in court. The monarcy and noble families of Spain would listen with enthusiasm to troubadours and minnesingers who performed ballads and love songs.
During all these periods Spanish music continued to thrive although perhaps not with such international influence. Keyboard works by Antonio Soler and Domenico Scarlatti reflected the trends of the time but then the focus shifted towards more regional and local musical traditions.
Life in the Costa Blanca is always full of music and the sounds we hear so regularly are a testimony to the areas culture and traditions. One of the most popular that we will hear and sea danced at local Fiestas is the Valencian jota, a lively folk sound danced in traditional costume and accompanied by guitar and tramborine. You will also be very familiar with other regional styles that influence all Spanish music such as the well known Fandango and Flamenco with all the rhythm and passion so associated with Spain.
The 20th century composers from Spain embody a wide range of styled from classical, comemporary, popular and experimental. Manuel de Falla and Joaquin Rodrigo pushed boundries exploring musical expression and the passionate art of flamenco gained international recognition. Today music in Spain continues to evolve and innovate with new generations of talented musicians blending traditional with contemporary styles to produce their on unique and exciting wound. These can be heard from the indie rock of Los Planetas to the electronic musical sounds of Ojos de Brujo. Spanish music continues to grow and influence while still maintaining a unique sound that reflects the country itself.
Our beautiful region of the Costa Blanca continues to embrace musical talent and numerous musical events and festivals are hosted in various town throughout the year. They celebrate all forms of music from classical, to jazz, rock, pop and traditional Spanish rythms. Local bands and musician perform regularly and creatively in local bars and restaurants ensuring that Spain remains a country who’s sounds and rythms inspire thoughts of summer breezes, golden beaches and beautiful scenery. It is the beating heart of the land we are able to call home.
Written by Hamiltons Real Estate - 2025
