Timbirico

Timbirico is a style of folk music originating from Uruguay. It emerged in the 19th century as a response to the country's sociopolitical climate. The music is characterized by its simple, melodic structure and often employs lyrics that address themes such as love, national identity, and social commentary.

The style is typically performed by solo artists, usually men, who sing and play a guitar-like instrument named a guitarone or a cuarteto. These instruments feature four strings and a flat fingerboard, allowing for a distinctive and requintive playing style. Timbirico musicians often improvise and adapt the genre's core elements to create a lively,sing-song performance.

In the early 20th century, Timbirico gained popularity as a popular music of Uruguay, with many artists contributing to its development and enrichment. Musician Carlos Maspoli is often credited with creating the first and most influential cuarteto used in timbirico music. The Timbirico style is considered an authentic expression of the Uruguayan folk music experience, representing the emotions and daily lives of ordinary people rather than showcasing technical instrumentalism.Aside from Uruguay, timbirico's influence can be noticed in some Chilean artistic expressions, drawing similarities regarding the fact of easy access lyrics compositions adding emphasis towards everyday social scenic realization tendencies.