Sephardic music in Barcelona

Sephardic music, rooted in the traditions of Jews from the Iberian Peninsula, is a rich and evocative blend of cultural influences that span centuries and continents.

After the expulsion from Spain in 1492, Sephardic Jews carried their musical heritage to regions like North Africa, the Balkans, and the Middle East, where it absorbed elements from local cultures.

Characterized by its use of Ladino (Judeo-Spanish) lyrics, Sephardic music often features haunting melodies, intricate rhythms, and themes of love, loss, and longing. Instruments like the oud, violin, and darbuka are commonly used, and the music is performed in both sacred and secular contexts, preserving a vibrant legacy that continues to evolve through contemporary interpretations.

Sephardic music in Barcelona reflects a vibrant revival of the city's rich Jewish heritage, particularly rooted in the medieval Jewish Quarter known as El Call.

Today, Barcelona hosts concerts and cultural events that celebrate Sephardic musical traditions, often featuring Ladino songs and instruments like the oud and darbuka.

Artists such as Mara Aranda have brought renewed attention to this genre through performances in historic venues as part of cycles like “Music and Romanesque,” which blend medieval architecture with evocative melodies. Local producers also contribute by crafting authentic Mediterranean and Sephardic soundscapes, preserving the emotional depth and historical resonance of this music