La Danza del Maíz is a timeless story rooted in Mexico’s ancient relationship with maize, a sacred crop symbolizing life, nourishment, and the deep connection between humans and nature. For centuries, this dance has been performed to honor the agricultural cycles, with each movement reflecting the stages of corn’s life-planting, nurturing, and harvesting-while invoking god to bless the land. Traditionally accompanied by indigenous instruments, the music and choreography embody the spiritual rhythm of the earth.
In a breathtaking live performance by BELONG at the Esch 2022 European Capital of Culture closing ceremony at Rockhal, this ancient dance is given a new, global voice through a fusion of diverse musical traditions. The Jarana player from Mexico brings the traditional heart of the dance, while a dancer from Peru adds a fiery and emotive layer of movement. The inclusion of an ancient Egyptian Kawala flute fills the air with a haunting, mystical sound, while a Swedish folk violinist weaves in melodies from Northern Europe, creating an eclectic blend of global folk traditions.
Adding even more richness to the performance, the Oud, a soulful instrument from the Middle East, complements the cultural mosaic, while percussions from Africa and Venezuela pulse with primal energy, grounding the dance in the heartbeat of the earth. Modern elements like the bass, guitars, drums, and saxophone bring a contemporary feel to the performance, representing the fusion of ancient wisdom with the modern world, uniting tradition with innovation.
This multicultural ensemble transforms La Danza del Maíz into a universal celebration of life, growth, and the cycles of nature. The Rockhal’s modern stage serves as the perfect backdrop for this powerful fusion, where traditional storytelling meets modern musical innovation. The performance becomes a living bridge between the ancient and contemporary worlds, illustrating how the spiritual and agricultural significance of maize transcends time, place, and culture. As the dancers and musicians move together in perfect harmony, the story of maize-the giver of life-is not only celebrated but reimagined for a global audience, resonating with the shared human experience of nurturing the earth and reaping its bounty.
Artists:
Achal Murthy - Bass
Adham Al-Sayyad - Kawala
Adham Raslan - Guitar
Ahmed Radwan - Oud
Amit Ravindra Dhuri - Percussion
Ebrima Mass - Djembe
Eduardo Ibargüengoytia - Jarana
Gustavo Morales - Percussion
Hy-Khang Dang - Saxophone
Kerstin Ivares - Violin
Max Duchscher - Drums
Rosa María Fernández - Dance
🌟 About BELONG:
Launched as part of the European Capital of Culture @Esch2022 , BELONG is an initiative by IWHO asbl that brings together musicians and dancers from all around the world to exchange their cultural and artistic expressions towards in a unique and captivating artistic creation.
Video credits: @freecaster & @bce-broadcastingcentereuro9178
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