The exhibition 'The Yesterday That Sounds Today' traces the history of the group on Calle La Arena. The event was attended by the mayor, founder Abilio Alonso Otazo, and numerous locals.
The Banda de Música Las Candelas celebrates its five decades of existence with an outdoor exhibition that is now open for viewing in the heart of Candelaria. The exhibition, titled 'The Yesterday That Sounds Today', was inaugurated this Wednesday at 20:00 on Calle La Arena and its surroundings, where it will remain throughout the summer.
The event brought together the mayor of Candelaria, Mari Brito; councillor Manuel González; the band director, Mauro Fariña; and the founder of the group, Abilio Alonso Otazo, a beloved son of the municipality who lends his name to the local House of Music. Dozens of locals, musicians, and family members joined the occasion, turning the inauguration into an emotional collective recognition.
An exhibition that spans half a century of music
The exhibition consists of several panels that showcase the band's journey, its most notable moments, and its evolution since its founding. Manuel González, the councillor for the area, explained that the exhibition is "a small tribute to all that the Band has meant for Candelaria" and an opportunity for those strolling along Calle La Arena this summer to learn about its history up close.
The panels include historical photographs, newspaper clippings, and documents that illustrate the growth of the group, which was founded in 1974 by Abilio Alonso Otazo. Five decades later, the band remains a cultural and musical reference for the municipality, with over fifty active musicians.
A summer filled with music and emotions
The mayor, Mari Brito, highlighted during her speech that "the Banda de Música Las Candelas is part of the identity and collective memory of this town." Brito announced that the annual programme includes a notable event: the concert 'By the Sea' on August 7, which will feature renowned violinist Aran Malikian.
For his part, the band director, Mauro Fariña, expressed gratitude for the institutional and community support, noting that "reaching 50 years is a source of immense pride." Fariña wanted to look to the future with optimism:
"Today we look back with gratitude towards those who started this journey, but we also look forward with the hope of continuing to add generations to this project."
The presence of Abilio Alonso Otazo, founder and direct witness of these five decades, added a particularly emotional tone to the day. Alonso Otazo, who remains connected to the musical life of the municipality, was able to see how his work has transcended generations.
A walk through the musical history of Candelaria
The outdoor exhibition allows locals and tourists to take a self-guided tour through the history of the band. The panels are installed on Calle La Arena, one of the busiest streets in the historic centre, making it accessible to anyone visiting the area. The exhibition will be available until the end of September, as confirmed by the Town Hall.
For music and local culture lovers, it is a unique opportunity to discover how a small village band has managed to stay alive for half a century, adapting to the times without losing its essence. The Banda Las Candelas has been a breeding ground for musicians and has enlivened festivals, processions, and concerts for generations.
The next major milestone will be the concert on August 7, where Malikian, an internationally renowned violinist, will share the stage with the band. Tickets will go on sale soon, and a full house is expected. In the meantime, the exhibition is a perfect plan for any summer day: free, outdoors, and filled with memories that resonate with glory.
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