LOS GAITEROS DE OVEJAS

LES INCONTOURNABLES presented by ICI MUSIQUE

“In my land, at the heart of Columbia’s Sugar Department, you will find the village of Ovejas, whose customs reflect energy and joy. In the hills beyond, you can hear the sound of Gaita music, which is so dear to me and is the pride of the people.” As if on cue, once these thoughts are shared by Henry Ortiz, the group’s frontman, traditional drums and flutes start up, setting the stage for a festive gathering. Los Gaiteros de Ovejas has evolved into a national fixture but has also blossomed internationally, sharing the stage with the likes of Arcade Fire. Generation to generation, over the past 30 years or more, the iconic group has been spreading Gaita music, a unique heritage that has its roots in pre-Columbian melodies and African percussion, and which combines traditional cumbia, porro and currulao influences.