Tonadas

Tonada is a traditional song form found in several Iberian and Latin American cultures. The term derives from tono, meaning tone or tune, and is used to describe different regional folk songs that share a melodic vocal emphasis.

In Spain, the tonada refers to a long-standing folk song of the northern regions, especially Asturias and Cantabria. It is typically a solo piece, sometimes with guitar or light accompaniment. Tonadas are usually slow to moderate in tempo, with a clear melodic line and distinctive ornamentation. Lyrics often reflect love, nature, daily life, or historical themes, and the delivery centers on vocal expression and melodic storytelling.

In Chile, tonada (tonada chilena) is a major component of the country’s folk music. It is generally sung with guitar accompaniment and features expressive melodies and a flexible rhythm. The Chilean tonada has deep roots in rural and urban performance traditions and remains a staple at festivals, gatherings, and in contemporary Chilean music, where it coexists with other genres such as cueca.

The term is also used in other Spanish-speaking regions to denote local folk songs, with regional varieties that reflect language, landscape, and cultural identities. While the exact features vary by locality, common elements include a focus on the melodic vocal line and the preservation of traditional storytelling through song.

Tonada should not be confused with tonadilla, a separate theatrical song form used in Spanish opera and theater.