Pepín de Muñalén Artist Spotlight

Pepín's career began with the Asturian bagpipe…

but his true calling was the wooden flute. A founding member of groups like Bron and Tuenda, his music journey reflects a deep connection with Asturian traditions. He has an extensive collaborative history with various artists across multiple genres. His versatility is evident in projects such as "La música tradicional del Navia-Eo" and his participation in "Son D'Arriba".

His collaborative journey includes work with notable artists like Hector Braga, Xel Diaz ("Da Robotz"), MariLuz Cristobal Caunedo, Fernando Largo, Sergio Rodriguez, Dark La Eme, Xaime Arias & Alberto Varillas, "Banda Gaites Llacín" and Humberto Carás, Banda Gaites Xácara, Josep-Maria Ribelles, D'Urria, Eva Tejedor y Les Pandereteres, Llan de Cubel, Eladio Díaz, Javi Tejedor, La Tarrancha, Un de Grao, Rubén Bada, and others. His collaborations range from folk to jazz, highlighting his adaptability and deep connection to the musical heritage of Asturias.

Tuenda, an acclaimed trio in traditional Asturian music, formed in winter 2003, made a significant impact on the folk music scene. They debuted with their self-titled album "Tuenda" in 2005, followed by "Tuenda 2" in 2008, and "Tuenda 3" in 2011. Their music, rooted deeply in Asturian oral traditions, captured diverse thematic elements and linguistic variations of Asturias. The group was known for their authentic interpretation of traditional music, resonating with audiences both locally and internationally.

Con JM Veillon, Camín de Cantares (semeya de Xose Antón Fernández, Ambás ATOAM)

Tuenda

Tuenda performed at various prestigious European festivals, including the Festival De La Canción De Miranda D´Ouro in Portugal, the 36th and 43rd Festival Interceltique de Lorient in Bretaña, and the Festival de la Danse Bretonne et de la Saint Loup in Bretaña. They also participated in the "Camín de Cantares" heritage program on TPA, which highlights contributing significantly to the preservation and promotion of regional traditions and music. Sadly, the band ceased activity in 2019 following the loss of Elías García.

Photo: Tuenda con Celestina (semeya de Xose Antón Fernández, Ambás ATOAM)

Listen to Tuenda’s Music here

Chigre L'Esperteyu

Con Ramón, músicu de Bustiel.lu Tabláu, Tinéu. (semeya de Xose Antón Fernández, Ambás ATOAM)

Con Sidoro, músicu de Bustel.lán, Tinéu (semeya de Xose Antón Fernández, Ambás ATOAM)

Ensayos pa Camín. (semeya de Xose Antón Fernández, Ambás ATOAM)

grabando pa Llan de Cubel

LAP(Semeya, Jaime GF)

Lydia y las berzas

Músicos de la Iris de Caeras y Lydia, Muñalén (semeya de Xose Antón Fernández, Ambás ATOAM)

Semeya de Nabil Amhaz

semeya de P. Lorenzana

Embracing folk music as a life path, for musicians like Pepín de Muñalén, is more than a career - it's a profound devotion that sets these artists apart. Often perceived as unconventional, some may even lead dual lives, balancing their folk persona with mainstream society. Their journey demands years of practice, ethnographic study, and continuous learning and sharing. They connect deeply with fellow musicians, creating a rich tapestry of shared experiences and perspectives.

In this video from the documentary "The Camino Voyage," we're transported to the scenic Asturian highlands. Here, a group of talented musicians, including Glen Hansard, Brendan Begley, Liam Holden, Frankie Delgado, and Asturian artist Pepín de Muñalén, alongside Jorge Otero, Luciano Menendez Fernandez, and others, share a memorable moment of music and camaraderie. This scene features a live rendition from Glen Hansard's album "This Wild Willing." Experience the warmth and inspiration of Asturian hospitality and music in this beautiful setting.

L’escañu - Stories from the Hearth