Los Fregolinos: A 65-Year Legacy of Music and Carnival Spirit
As the Santa Cruz de Tenerife Carnival 2026, themed “Ritmos Latinos,” approaches, a cornerstone of the festivities celebrates a remarkable milestone. The Agrupación Lírico Musical Los Fregolinos marks its 65th anniversary, solidifying its place as a beloved and enduring symbol of the “chicharrera” (Tenerife) Carnival – often hailed as the best in the world.
From Humble Beginnings to International Acclaim
Founded in October 1961 by a group of friends passionate about lyrical music and bel canto, Los Fregolinos debuted at the Carnival in 1962 and have participated every year since. The group’s name was inspired by the Salon Frégoli, and they initially performed in Pierrot costumes. Their early leader, Jorge Garabote, set the stage for a tradition of elegance and musical quality.
The group’s influence extends beyond the Canary Islands and the Iberian Peninsula. In 1992, coinciding with the 5th Centenary of the Discovery of America, Los Fregolinos embarked on a memorable journey to Venezuela, performing for the Canary Island diaspora in Caracas, Valencia, and at the Hogar Canario and Centro Gallego.
A Tradition of Musical Excellence
Los Fregolinos distinguish themselves through the quality of their musical performances, characterized by the unique style of their voices, and musicians. Currently led by President Cristóbal Luis Flores, the group boasts a rich history of directors, including Juan Estany Rius, Francisco Padrón Correa, Jesús Álvaro Fariña Adán, Agustín Ramos Ramos, Carlos Afonso Cedres, Felipe Neri Gil Marrero, and current director Juan Antonio Domínguez Martín.
Over the years, Los Fregolinos have nurtured a wealth of talent, launching the careers of artists like Marco Redondo, Luis Quiros, Carlos Munguía, Pablo Vidal, and soprano Sara Khouri. This legacy continues with a new generation of lyrical artists, including Cristóbal Viña, Jorge León, Pedro Lavirgen, Candelaria González, and many others.
Expanding the Repertoire and Community Engagement
While renowned for their Carnival performances, Los Fregolinos likewise maintain a diverse repertoire that includes villancicos (Christmas carols) and habaneras. For the 2026 Carnival, the group welcomes tenor Javier Palacios, who has performed with Montserrat Caballé and Plácido Domingo.
The group comprises a 28-member chorus, accompanied by a 15-member wind and percussion orchestra during Carnival and Christmas concerts. They also collaborate with the Trémolo pulse and púa group for their habanera performances. Los Fregolinos demonstrate a commitment to social responsibility through ongoing collaboration with charitable organizations and donations to local food banks.
Upcoming Performance
Catch Los Fregolinos in concert on February 10th at 8:00 pm (GMT+00:00) at the Círculo de la amistad XII de Enero, located at C. Ruíz de Padrón, 12, 38002 Santa Cruz de Tenerife.
FAQ
Q: How long has Los Fregolinos been participating in the Santa Cruz de Tenerife Carnival?
A: Since 1962, without interruption.
Q: Who is the current president of Los Fregolinos?
A: Cristóbal Luis Flores.
Q: Where did Los Fregolinos perform internationally?
A: They performed in Venezuela in 1992.
Q: What style of music is Los Fregolinos known for?
A: Lyrical music and bel canto.
Did you know? Los Fregolinos’ costumes traditionally feature the classic Pierrot design, adding to their distinctive visual presence during the Carnival.
Pro Tip: Check the official Carnival of Tenerife website for the latest schedule and details on Los Fregolinos’ performances: https://carnavaldetenerife.com/
Explore more about the vibrant culture of Tenerife and the magic of the Carnival. Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!
