Tanxugueiras comes from Galician, a language spoken in the community of Galicia, Spain. In Spanish, it translates as villancico and is a song or hymn on the theme of Christmas, traditionally sung at Christmas time itself or during the festivities surrounding it.
Sometimes the term Noel has been used, especially for carols of French origin. Tanxugueiras or carols can be considered a subset of the broader category of Christmas music.
SYNONYMS FOR Tanxugueiras
- Christmas carols
- Christmas songs
- Christmas songs
- Noel
- Carol
ORIGIN OF Tanxugueiras
The first known Christmas hymns date back to 4th century Rome. Latin hymns such as Veni redemptor gentium. Written by Ambrose, archbishop of Milan at that time. These hymns austere statements of the theological doctrine of the Incarnation in opposition to Arianism.
In modern times, groups of carol singers gathered in public spaces in the 19th century. These ensembles of singers used to gather to perform for passers-by, who traditionally thanked them by offering drinks or mince pies.
Today, we still sing the tanxugueiras or carols with great emotion during the Christmas season. Especially when putting up the tree or while at a family gathering.
In Galicia, people who speak Galician, use the term tanxugueiras even though it is not used in the rest of Spain or other Spanish-speaking countries.
CURIOSITIES OF Tanxugueiras
Tanxugueiras is a Galician folk music trio formed in 2016 by Aida Tarrío and twin sisters Olaia and Sabela Maneiro. The group aims to bring a modern sound to traditional Galician music by fusing folk with pop and international music influences.
Their themes focus on understanding between peoples, the defense of the Galician language and culture, as well as the empowerment of women.