Every August, Medellín bursts into celebration with the Feria de Flores, a festival that draws tourists from all over the world. While the festival’s colorful displays and lively events, like the antique car parade, are crowd favorites, there is one event that stands out for its deep cultural roots: the Festival Nacional de La Trova Ciudad de Medellín. This year, the festival marks its 20th edition, bringing with it a unique blend of humor, music, and improvisation.
Understanding Trova: A Tradition of Improvised Lyrical Poetry
Trova is an art form that traces its origins back to Spain but has found a special place in Latin American culture. It’s a style of improvised lyrical poetry set to music, filled with humor and sharp commentary. In the realm of Trova, legends like Silvio Rodriguez, Pablo Milanés, Facundo Cabral, and Mercedes Sosa have made their mark in this storytelling tradition.
Most Latin American countries have developed their own version of Trova, reflecting their distinct identities. In Colombia, Trova has particularly flourished, with each region showcasing its unique style. This art form isn’t just about music; it’s a way for people to communicate stories, express ideas, and connect with each other in a fun and creative way.
The Festival Nacional de La Trova Ciudad de Medellín: 20th Edition Highlight
This year, approximately four hundred participants signed up to audition for the 20th edition of the Festival Nacional de La Trova Ciudad de Medellín. The contest is a unique event where two contestants face off in a lyrical battle to showcase their improvisation skills. There are few requirements to enter: the contest is open to all Colombian nationals over the age of 16 who wish to demonstrate their talent in lyrical improvisation, regardless of prior experience in the art form. Trova is a treasured part of Colombian cultural heritage, with each region having its own style. For this festival, the focus is on Trova Paisa, specifically trova sencilla, which consists of four-line verses, each with eight syllables, with the second and fourth line rhyming.
This and the past ten editions have been coordinated by William Giraldo Orozco, who has done an excellent job at bringing this event to fruition. The auditions and qualifying events were held across various locations in the city including El Teatro Pablo Tobón Uribe, the iconic Pueblito Paisa, and several shopping centers. Each event was well-organized, with an enthusiastic audience and live band providing additional entertainment. The rounds were hosted by the energetic and charismatic Mónica Londoño, who effectively managed the atmosphere and set clear guidelines for the audiences and the participants.
A competent jury, consisting of former trova contestants, radio hosts, cultural managers, and university professors like Gilmer Mesa, is responsible for selecting the best participants at each stage. Out of the four hundred aspiring candidates vying for the title of King or Queen of Trova, only one hundred were chosen to advance to the qualifying rounds, which are divided into seven segments. From these, only twenty-four candidates will move on to elimination rounds, named after the fathers of Trova Paisa, Salvo Ruiz and Ñito Restrepo.
Audience Reactions and Participant Dynamics
I took a special liking to the audience. They were respectful and enthusiastic, cheering for their favorite candidates and maintaining silence when less favored participants performed. The crowd’s enthusiasm was palpable as they celebrated the advancement of their favorite candidates, with cheers and applause filling the venue. However, when less popular participants were chosen over their preferred contestants, there was a noticeable shift in the atmosphere. A palpable sense of discontent and disbelief spread among the audience.
The attendees included aspiring candidates for future editions and supporters of current participants. In speaking with spectators, one in particular, Milena, shared that she became a fan of trova in her early childhood. She vividly expressed her emotions, and her excitement shone through as she recounted happy memories with her late father, who introduced her to this art form.
This environment often serves as a platform for many to express their political opinions and social criticisms. Contestants are free to express their ideas, but must adhere to guidelines ensuring a respectful and safe environment. They must use respectful language, and offensive or insulting language towards other participants, organizers, judges, or anyone supporting the event is prohibited. Additionally, contestants are not allowed to use violence or engage in physical aggression, either on or off the stage. Participation under the influence of alcohol or drugs is also forbidden.
As I watched the contestants, it was clear they were under a lot of pressure, which sometimes led to commentary that, in my view, was inappropriate and off-color. It’s similar to a rap freestyle, where things can slip out without malicious intent. The gender imbalance was noticeable, with about one woman for every five men. I found it particularly annoying when male contestants resorted to flattering comments about the women’s beauty or talents during their face-offs. While I appreciate gallantry, this felt over the top. The women, however, handled it well, responding with clever and sharp comebacks.
The Growing Popularity of Trova: Influences and Trends
The growing popularity of trova in Colombia can be attributed to several key factors, with influencers like Lokillo, born Yédinson Ned Flórez Duarte playing a crucial role. As a former trovador who won the Rey Nacional Infantil de la Trova in 2001 and later became a celebrated comedian, Lokillo has used his platform to introduce and inspire a new generation of enthusiasts from all walks of life to explore trova.
Radio shows and television programs dedicated to showcasing trova have brought the art form into the homes of many Colombians, significantly expanding its audience. Cultural festivals and competitions, such as Astrocol, Feria de Manizales, and Festival de Trova Orquídea de Oro, provide vital platforms for trovadores to display their talents and engage with both new and seasoned audiences. Educational initiatives in schools and cultural institutions have also been instrumental, teaching the younger generation the skills and history of trova.
The Grand Prize: Rewards and Opportunities for the Winners
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Congratulations to Alejandro Marín Lopera for his third win as King of Trova, Festival Nacional de la Trova Ciudad de Medellín
The grand prize for the winner is quite enticing. It includes 20 million pesos, plus any additional earnings from the qualifying rounds—because extra cash is always welcome. The winner also takes on the role of National Ambassador for Colombian Trova, a title that comes with the responsibility of representing and promoting this cherished art form. On top of that, they’ll have the opportunity to travel internationally, showcasing Colombian trova at events around the world. It’s a prize that combines recognition, financial reward, and global exposure, making it a truly impressive package.
