"The term “Cocoa Panyol” is peculiar to Trinidad and Tobago. “Cocoa” (Theobroma cacao) is an agricultural product, while “Panyol”, derived from Español/Espagnol, refers to Spanish language and culture.
The Aguinaldo (pronounced ah-ghee-nahl-doe)
In the book Parang Cancionero, the author explains: "Modern Parang comprises music and song derived mainly from traditional Venezuelan folk music, and contemporary popular Latin American music. The former is often described as “authentic” or “heritage” parang rooted in the musical expressions of Eastern Venezuela. In this work the lyrics of contemporary Latin American song … Continue reading The Aguinaldo (pronounced ah-ghee-nahl-doe)
Sylvestre Betico Mata, parrandero 1905-1987
Sylvestre Betico Mata was born in Güiria, (pronounced Gweereeah), in the Paria Peninsular of Eastern Venezuela, on January 1st 1905. As a little boy in Güiria, Mata had been a participant in the house-to-house parang. In 1916, at the age of eleven, he migrated to Trinidad as a refugee.1 1 Information received from family members. … Continue reading Sylvestre Betico Mata, parrandero 1905-1987
Villancicos, Romances and Coplas
To discover more about the origins of parang let us return to Spain with Columbus and his joyous mariners in the year 1498 before the start of their third voyage to the Indies. These men come from different regions: Castile, Leon, Extremadura, and most of all Andalusia in the south. We know that theirs is … Continue reading Villancicos, Romances and Coplas
The First Parang
In July of 1498 Christopher Columbus, on his third voyage to the New World, reached an island which he called Trinidad (English: Trinity) and claimed possession of it on behalf of the Spanish Crown. The three hills seen in the south of the island were a reminder that he had vowed to dedicate the first land he reached … Continue reading The First Parang
Parranda
Sereno, sereno sereno será Estos son serenos De la madrugá Estos son serenos De la madrugá
Parang and Douens
Many Spanish words used by Trinidadian speakers of Spanish were shortened in our local English in a similar manner.
This is Parang Season in Trinidad and Tobago
Indeed, parang is not restricted to the Christmas season. It belongs to all seasons, and for all occasions of celebration.
