Semana Santa Bands in the Lecrin Valley: The Soulful Soundtrack of Tradition

Semana Santa, the week before Easter, is a deeply spiritual event in Andalucía. Local Communities unite to honor Christ’s passion, death, and resurrection through solemn processions. Yet, it is the powerful marching band music that elevates the experience.

Each Semana Santa procession has a unique atmosphere, shaped by its music. Early in the week, uplifting melodies reflect hope and anticipation. By Good Friday, slow, mournful tones evoke grief, inviting deep reflection.

Banda de Música “San Juan Bautista” of Nigüelas and Lecrín

There is a strong musical tradition in the Lecrin Valley villages. An initiative by the Town Halls of Nigüelas and Lecrin resulted in the revival of the marching band “San Juan Bautista” with the aim of promoting musical culture in the region. The band is an expression of local pride providing the soundtrack to the village fiestas and Semana Santa processions with both passion and professionalism.

Beyond the identical unforms, the fifty Lecrin Valley musicians who form our band are a diverse bunch aged between 10 and 60 and even generations of the same families. If you live in the Valley, don´t be surprised to see a local builder blowing the tuba, Elysium´s waiter as the lead clarinetist and one of the mayors beating a drum. It´s great to see that there are so many young people in the band, a sign that our villages and this cultural tradition have a strong future ahead. 

Where to watch processions this Semana Santa

PADUL

To experience Semana Santa with full musical accompaniment, visit a larger town. Padul on Good Friday (April 18) is ideal, with 12 floats parading in one night, each with a band. It’s also easy to park, find a good view, and enjoy tapas while you wait.

GRANADA

Experiencing a Semana Santa procession in Granada is unforgettable. Follow the crowds to iconic spots, especially with the Alhambra as a backdrop, in the Albaicín, Sacromonte, or near the cathedral. For procession routes and timings from Palm Sunday (April 13) to Easter Sunday (April 20) click HERE

Concerts

If you´d rather enjoy a sit-down concert, you can hear the full Semana Santa repertoire played by San Juan Bautista band at the church in Cónchar on Friday, April 4, and in Padul in the cultural centre Federico Garcia Lorca on Saturday, April 5, both at 20:00h.