A barber shop with own voice
Àngel Maresca, a barber from Alghero born in 1944, not only does it engage in cutting hair and shaving; His barber shop is a stage where music is living. With the guitar in his hand, this artist maintains a tradition that seems to be in danger of extinction. “If you enter my barber shop, I will cut your hair, I will make you a shave … and I will sing a song to you,” he says with passion.
The legacy of musicians
Maresca, despite being retired, spends hours at his barber shop, where music and conversations have always been part of everyday life. ‘Formerly, barberies were the heart of the community. On Sundays, open to everyone, they were meeting places where fishermen and notaries shared ideas on politics and social issues, “he says.
A journey to roots
The tradition of singing while working dates back to the beginning of the nineteenth century, with the creation of the mutual operational society Relief in Alghero. This institution facilitated the union of workers and encouraged cultural activities, including music. “Many barbers had guitars and mandolins, taking advantage of free moments to practice,” says Maresca.
Presentation of ‘Return’ in Barcelona
On March 28, Angel Maresca will present his new album entitled ‘Reunion’ at the Tradicionàrius Artisan Center in Barcelona. In this record, it explores topics such as love, cultural identity and society. The title, which refers to a historical journey between Barcelona and Alghero, symbolizes a key moment in revitalizing the Algerian language and culture.
A concert full of nostalgia
Maresca will not only perform the songs of the album, but also will share balzigues, a traditional Alghero musical style. “These songs are like the corrandas, an essential part of our culture,” he adds.
The Alghero Language: A Heritage in danger
According to Maresca, the Alghero language is declining, with only 10,000 speakers, most of the elderly. “If you are not spoken at home, the tongue will disappear,” he warns. Intergenerational transmission is key to the survival of Alghero.
The role of new generations
Maresca reflects on sociolinguistic change: ‘The most polite classes have opted for Italian, and this has affected the transmission of the language. The recovery of Alghero depends on the acceptance and promotion between the new generations. ‘
Building connections with Catalonia
For Maresca, it is essential to establish connections between Catalonia and Alghero. “Young people need stimuli to travel and understand their culture,” he concludes. ‘Music and language are the bond that unites us and allows us to survive as a community.’