More than just une comptine (a nursery rhyme) for children, ‘À la claire fontaine’ is deeply embedded in the French culture. Its verses are filled with beauty, romance and a sense of legend. Hundreds of variations of this song exist, emphasizing … Continue reading
The San Fermín festivities will come to a close this weekend, at midnight on the 14th of July. That is the moment when a great crowd gathers in front of el ayuntamiento (Town Hall) of Pamplona to sing the traditional song "Pobre de mí". Continue reading
Sunday, July 6 at noon marked the beginning of yet another Festival of San Fermín. Revelers gather in the city of Pamplona, wearing the traditional pañuelo rojo (red handkerchief). The festival kicks of with el chupinazo, a special fireworks display that begins … Continue reading
Most people in February are getting ready to celebrate Valentine’s Day, but not in Brazil. This isn’t because Brazilians don’t have a day dedicated to lovers - that day is celebrated on June 12th, Saint Anthony’s Day or Dia dos … Continue reading
Think it’s hard to learn to sing in Japanese? Not so! Here’s a trick. Try to learn the Japanese version of songs that you already know; for example, Twinkle Twinkle Little Star. You already know how the melody goes, so … Continue reading
One of the most watched Youtube videos in the Middle East is a video clip for a famous Lebanese artist, Nancy Ajram. The song is called "Maashi Haddi" which translates to "While He Walks Next to Me." Try to read the Arabic lyrics and follow along. Continue reading
Jean Reinhardt, better known as Django Reinhardt, was a guitarist whose style of playing and composition gave birth to a style of jazz called gypsy jazz. Continue reading
Do you like karaoke? If yes, have you tried karaoke in German? If not, then I have the song that may make you start singing in German! My favorite karaoke song in German is “99 Luftballons” by Nena in 1983, … Continue reading
Christmas carols are an age-old German tradition cherished around the world. You’ll hear them in every single department store and in many offices to create the right atmosphere for the holiday season. Here are some fun facts about some of them. … Continue reading
Steve Albini is a well-know figure in music circles. He produced Nirvana’s final studio album, In Utero, as well as lesser known but very appreciated underground bands. (By the way, last month was the 20th anniversary of “Nevermind.”) Below is a … Continue reading
