The Sanjuanito or San Juan in Otavalo

Abstract

This article examines the origin and multiple denominations of the sanjuanito, a traditional dance and musical genre from Otavalo, Ecuador. Through a linguistic and musical analysis, the transcriptional confusion in the literature is explored, where the terms "San Juanito" and "sanjuanito", as well as "San Juan" and "sanjuán", are used interchangeably, although with nuances of ritual and non-ritual context. It is argued that the sanjuanito has its origin in the celebrations of the feast of San Juan, and that its evolution has given rise to an autonomous musical genre, although still linked to this festivity. In addition, the possible relationship of the sanjuanito with the huayno, another Andean musical genre, is discussed, pointing out similarities in the use of the anhemitonic-pentatonic scale and binary rhythms. This study highlights the importance of the sanjuanito as a cultural expression and its role in the musical identity of the Otavalo region.