horas

Horas is a genre of folk music and dance that originated in the Andean highlands of South America, particularly in Bolivia, Peru, and northern Chile. The word “hora” comes from the Quechua term “urqu,” meaning “mountain,” reflecting the music’s deep roots in the mountainous regions where it developed as an expression of communal celebration and ritual.

The musical structure of the horas typically follows a binary or ternary rhythm, often in 2/4 or 6/8 time, with a moderate tempo that encourages both listening and dancing. Instruments commonly used include the charango, quena, zampoña (panpipes), harp, and various regional drums such as the bombo. Melodies are based on pentatonic scales and feature repetitive, lyrical phrases that allow for improvisation by instrumentalists.

The dance associated with horas is a group activity performed in a circle or line, with participants holding hands or linking arms. Movements are modest, involving short steps, slight hip sways, and occasional spins, reflecting the social and inclusive nature of the practice. In many villages, the horas is performed during religious festivals, agricultural fairs, and national holidays, serving both as entertainment and as a means of reinforcing community identity.

In Bolivia, the most famous form is the “Hora del Altiplano,” which has been recognized by UNESCO as an intangible cultural heritage of humanity. In Peru, the style has integrated into regional folk ensembles, while in northern Chile it has contributed to the development of the huayno genre. Contemporary musicians continue to blend horas with modern arrangements, ensuring its ongoing relevance while preserving its traditional character.