The city of Oviedo is set to become a hub of music and tradition as it hosts the 29th International Cuartuna Competition Memorial Jamín on 16 and 17 October. Covadonga Díaz, the councillor for festivities, youth, and social centres, announced the event during a press conference, highlighting the participation of 28 cuartunas and more than 600 musicians from Spain, Portugal, the Netherlands, and Mexico.
Díaz expressed her gratitude to the veteran musicians from the University of Oviedo and the International Federation of Cuartunas for their commitment to the event, stating, "The cuartuna is much more than music; it embodies history, friendship, companionship, and a tradition that has endured through generations. It is also a way of understanding university life, sharing experiences, and demonstrating that the joy of enjoying life knows no age."
On a personal note, Díaz shared her excitement about being named madrina for this edition of the competition. "This appointment fills me with immense pride and gratitude to everyone who thought of me for such a special occasion. Being the madrina of the cuartunas is an honour that transcends the title; it connects me to a tradition that represents values I fully identify with—friendship, loyalty, joy, respect for our roots, and the ability to keep the spirit alive over time," she said.
She added, "What is particularly beautiful about this competition is witnessing how music continues to unite people, creating memories and evoking emotions regardless of age or origin. I hope to live up to the warmth with which I have been received and to experience these days with the same enthusiasm with which you have prepared for them. I am convinced that Oviedo will be the perfect setting for this gathering. We are a university city with a rich cultural tradition, known for our hospitality and pride in our roots. We love welcoming those who come to share their cultures and traditions, and I am sure that visitors will leave with unforgettable memories."
Díaz invited all residents and visitors to take to the streets to enjoy the parades, rounds, and performances, which will be free of charge at the Príncipe Felipe Auditorium until capacity is reached. She particularly encouraged attendance at the official inauguration on Friday at 5 PM in the Plaza del Ayuntamiento, where a collective performance of the song "Clavelitos" is expected to be a highlight.
José Manuel Pontón, representing the Cuartuna of the University of Oviedo and the event's organisation, stated, "Oviedo is a city with an excellent cultural offering, and this event adds the finishing touch, showcasing the best of student tradition, music, joy, and camaraderie in our streets." He outlined the programme, noting that on Friday at 4:30 PM, there will be an official photo in the Cathedral square, followed by a reception at the Town Hall where authorities will welcome participants. A parade will follow, with performances scheduled throughout the weekend at the auditorium, featuring various cuartunas every 15 minutes.
The performances will take place on Friday from 7:30 PM to 9:30 PM, and on Saturday from 11:45 AM to 2:15 PM and 6:30 PM to 9:30 PM. "The musical level is very high, with many seasoned performers, some with over 40 years of experience in the cuartuna tradition," Pontón added.
