One of the most characteristic and beloved sones of the Tamunangue (its name means "Little by Little"). It is danced by imitating the walk of an old man who falls and gets up, with verse and mime that draw laughter and applause.
The dance of El Poco a Poco
A dancer mimics the **ailments of an old man**: he stoops, takes short steps, pretends to fall, gets up with effort. His partner helps him and gently scolds him with affection. Other dancers may mime objects (a cane, a hat).
Meaning of El Poco a Poco
El Poco a Poco is an **allegory of old age** and the passage of time: the old man falls but gets up, laughs at himself, and the community accompanies him. It is collective tenderness made dance.
History and origin
It is one of the most popular sones outside Lara: it is frequently performed at Venezuelan traditional music festivals. Its theatricality makes it immediately recognizable even to those who are not from El Tocuyo.
Traditional lyrics
"Poco a poco, poco a poco, este viejo se va cayendo…" ("Little by little, little by little, this old man is falling down…") — the couplets describe the elderly man with affectionate humor.
Instruments
El Poco a Poco is performed with the traditional Tamunangue instruments:
- Cuatro (Venezuelan four-string guitar)
- Cinco (Venezuelan five-string guitar)
- Cumaco drum
- Maracas
Curiosities about El Poco a Poco
- Dancing El Poco a Poco well requires **acting skills** as well as musical ones.
- The couplets are usually improvised to include neighbors and grandparents present at the celebration.
- It is one of the favorites of Tocuyo children because of its humor.
Place in the Tamunangue
El Poco a Poco is the son number 5 of the Tamunangue. To understand how it connects with the other sones, read the guide to the 8 sones of the Tamunangue.