Musical Participation and Social Bonding in La Negrería Fiesta of Huancaya, Peru

Abstract

This thesis examines the relationship between musical participation and social bonding in La Negrería fiesta of Huancaya, Peru. La Negrería is celebrated throughout the central Peruvian Andes, and the use of black masks is a defining feature of this occasion. Fiesta origins reference both Catholic elements and African slavery which bond participants together by shared religous and historical backgrounds. The organizational structure of leadership positions and dance participants maintain order and encourage a collective identity of "sameness" in their attire and behavior. The musical structure and elements maintain flow and musical consistency, allowing sychronized dance movements to stay fluid and together throughout the fiesta. Neighboring communities distinguish themselves from each other by variations in their music, dance, and costumes. Fiesta origins, organization, music and dance, and distinction from other communities allows Huancaya participants in La Negrería to establish social bonds through a unique collective identity.