With a festive atmosphere and enthusiastic participation, the residents of Altavista continue to intensely experience the patron saint festivities in honor of San Antonio María Claret. On Saturday night at 8:00 p.m., "Los Luchadores" Park became the epicenter of excitement and talent during the celebration of the 5th 'Altavista Canta' Song Festival, an event organized by the Padre Claret Neighborhood Association and the Festival Committee.
Under a serene sky and a typically spring-like climate, as only Lanzarote knows how to offer, the audience enjoyed an evening where the music shone with its own light. This festival, unique in its format, offered the performers the opportunity to sing accompanied by a live orchestra, made up of renowned professional musicians: Alex Jiménez (Percussion), Rodolfo Lussón (Bass), Yosán Pereda (Guitar) and Manuel Mauri (Piano), who also assumed the musical direction and arrangements.
The jury, composed of eight prominent professionals from the artistic field, music teachers, choreographers, stylists, musical producers, and actors, carefully assessed the interpretation and staging of the twelve participants, ten women and two men, who showcased their talent in a wide variety of musical genres. The audience, engaged from the very beginning, accompanied each performance with applause, cheers, and words of encouragement.
The festival kicked off with a performance by Inma Sepúlveda, winner of the previous edition, who once again won over the audience with her voice and charisma, performing the song "Maldita Primavera." Next, the contestants of this fifth edition took to the stage, filling the night with rhythm, emotion, and sensitivity.
After the performances, while the jury deliberated, the audience had the privilege of enjoying the guest artist "Cintia Merino," a young singer from Córdoba and finalist of the renowned program "Se llama Copla," from Canal Sur de Andalucía. Accompanied on piano by maestro José Miguel Álvarez (Josemi), a prestigious producer, arranger, and musical director, Cintia offered a memorable recital, full of elegance and warmth.
Her voice, warm and powerful, ran through a repertoire of great songs of Spanish music, honoring immortal figures such as Rocío Jurado, Marifé de Triana, and Lola Flores. On more than one occasion, Cintia descended from the stage to sing among the audience, creating an intimate and emotional bond that unleashed the applause and admiration of all those present.
The culminating moment arrived with the reading of the verdict. The twelve performers returned to the stage to receive a beautiful trophy, a replica of a "Golden Microphone," in recognition of their participation. Immediately afterwards, the jury's decision was announced.
3rd Prize, valued at 200 euros and trophy: María Nieves Betancort
2nd Prize, valued at 300 euros and trophy: Janet Rey
1st Prize, valued at 500 euros and trophy: Araceli Bravo
The awards were presented by the First Deputy Mayor and Councillor for Festivities of the Arrecife City Council, Echedey Eugenio; the Councillor for Citizen Participation, Cathaysa Suárez; the President of the Padre Claret Neighborhood Association, Mari Carmen Santacruz; and the Councillor for Security and Emergencies, Kevin Cortés.
To close with a flourish, Araceli Bravo, the festival's brand-new winner, performed the song that crowned her, "Contigo en la Distancia," once again, moving the audience and leaving a trail of applause and emotion.
The night concluded with smiles, gratitude, and the promise of a new edition. An unforgettable evening that reaffirms that "Altavista Canta" is not just a musical contest, but an authentic celebration of the passion, talent, and unity of a neighborhood that beats to the rhythm of music.
Altavista
