Courtesy of Yale School of Music

Truly embodying one’s craft is a huge feat; for Paco Peña, it is second nature.                  

Regarded as one of the most prolific flamenco players in the world, Peña is set to perform this Wednesday at Morse Recital Hall. Armed only with his guitar, the seasoned performer will deliver a program of traditional Flamenco pieces. The performance will begin at 7:30 p.m. and tickets are available online. His stop at Yale is part of the Yale School of Music’s Concert Series.

“Paco Peña is one of the most influential and respected flamenco guitarists in the world,” said José Garciá-León, the Henry and Lucy Moses Dean of the School of Music. “His importance comes not only from his exceptional skill as a performer but also from his contributions to preserving, evolving, and promoting the art of flamenco internationally.”

Originally from Córdoba, Spain, Peña began learning guitar at age 6. He made his professional debut at age twelve and has been performing ever since. 

Now 82, Peña has graced many professional venues, including Carnegie Hall and the Royal Albert Hall. 

“Paco is a dear friend, a mentor and a great inspiration.” says Ben Verdery, associate professor and adjunct of guitar at the School of Music.

Verdery was one of the people who helped coordinate Peña’s visit to the University. He called him a “legendary flamenco guitarist” who has drawn inspiration from Flamenco giants such as Nino Ricardo, Ramon Montoya and Sabicas.

He called Paco’s command of the instrument “not only dazzling but deeply emotional.”

 “I know of few musicians who play with such soulfulness,” he said.

Throughout his career Peña has received many accolades for his work. In 1997, he was named Oficial de la Cruz de la Orden del Mérito Civil, and in 2013 awarded the Gold Medal in the Arts by the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington.

Peña’s performance on Wednesday is an opportunity for students to expose themselves to a brand new art form.  

“I’m currently taking a class on art songs from Spain, and we’ve discussed Flamenco and its influence on Spanish classical music,” said Alliese Bonner ’27, a student planning on attending this week’s performance. “I’m really excited to hear it performed live.”

Flamenco originated in the Andalusia region of Spain during the 15th century. Much about its development is lost due to its focus on oral tradition, as well as events like the Spanish Inquisition. In 1869, the artform entered a so-called “golden age,” rapidly developing into what it is known as today.

Artists like Peña are continuing to push the boundaries of traditional cultural music. His recent projects include fusing Flamenco with other cultural genres. One such project, “Quimeras,” uses the combination of Flamenco with traditional African music to highlight the migration of culture with populations.

“Peña’s importance lies in his ability to not only perform flamenco at the highest level but also to serve as a bridge between the traditional roots of the genre and its modern-day interpretations, all while educating and inspiring audiences and musicians across the globe,” highlighted Dean Garciá-León.

Another eager concert goer, Walker Bargmann ’25, commented on how “super excited” he was to go and experience this new genre live.

Built in 1917, Morse Recital Hall served as the original location of the School of Music.