Chema Puente

Chema Puente was a beloved Spanish folk musician from Cantabria, renowned as a virtuoso of the rabel, a traditional rustic fiddle played with a bow. Born in the Cueto neighborhood of Santander, he grew up deeply immersed in the music and traditions of his region. His warm, powerful voice and masterful rabel playing made him a standout figure in Cantabrian folk music. Among his most celebrated works is the habanera "Santander, la marinera," which became an unofficial anthem for the city and a cherished piece for the people of Cantabria. Over his career, Puente released several influential albums, including "De la machina a la Braña," "La Ciudad del Nordeste Azul," and "Donde Silba el Viento y Rompe la Mar".

Beyond his performance career, Chema Puente was also an important educator and preserver of Cantabrian music traditions. As a teacher at the Escuela de Folclore de Santander, he trained a new generation of rabel players and singers, helping revitalize regional folk music. He also gave workshops and participated in concerts across Spain, spreading the rich cultural heritage of his homeland far and wide. Between 1999 and 2001, he was part of the Trío Cantabria, further expanding the reach of rabel music. Puente’s contributions as a musician and mentor left a lasting legacy in the traditional music scene of Cantabria until his passing in 2024 at age 73.

Genres

Traditional Music

Latest Release

La Ciudad del Nordeste Azul

Chema Puente

Album - 15 Tracks - Released January 15, 2019