May 2024

Maribor

In May, we will host Gonzalo Montaña Peñe in Maribor and on Pohorje—an outstanding musicologist and researcher specialising in flamenco. His residency, taking place from 4 to 24 May, will be dedicated to exploring the musical and dance traditions of our local Romani community. In his work, Gonzalo uniquely combines academic knowledge with an authentic, personal understanding of flamenco—shaped by being part of a renowned artistic family in which flamenco is a way of life and a philosophy.

The visit will take place in parallel with the Romheritage project, and the residency will be financed by the Epeka Association from its own funds. Gonzalo, a music teacher by profession and a PhD candidate at the University of Seville, will use his time in Maribor for in-depth dialogue with local Romani people. As part of the residency, he will also lead two open workshops, where he will share his knowledge of flamenco rhythms, dance steps, and history with Maribor’s Romani community and the interested public, while also creating space for sharing local musical and dance traditions.

You are warmly invited to the workshops at Romska postaja:

  • 10 May at 7:00 PM
  • 17 May at 7:00 PM

As a researcher, Gonzalo is focusing in his doctoral thesis precisely on the contribution of Romani people to flamenco, which is why his stay in Maribor will be an important source of new insights. Drawing on his extensive experience as a music critic and journalist, he will present flamenco to visitors not only as an art form, but as a powerful cultural bond that connects different communities. His visit will bring a fresh international perspective to our environment and strengthen ties between the Slovenian and Spanish Romani communities.

Participation in the workshops is free of charge!