Amaia's Captivating Debut at NPR's Tiny Desk Concert

Spanish singer Amaia made her debut at NPR's Tiny Desk Concert, showcasing her versatility as a multi-instrumentalist. The performance featured a selection of songs from her recent album, *Si Abro Los Ojos No Es Real*, including the opening tracks "C'est La Vie" and "Nanai." Notably, Amaia incorporated a unique element into her performance by transforming a folding chair into a flute, crafted by Xavier Lozano, which she played during the set.

Watch Spanish singer Amaia play a flute made from a folding chair on NPR’s Tiny Desk Concert

Amaia's set included a blend of traditional and contemporary influences. Following "C'est La Vie," she performed "Zorongo," a mashup of the traditional Andalusian song "Zorongo Gitano," famously recorded by Federico García Lorca, and Isaac Albéniz’s "Rumores de la Caleta." The performance also featured "Auxiliar," characterized by bachata rhythms, and "Giratutto," which reflects a more experimental production style. She concluded with "Yamaguchi," a tribute to a park in her hometown of Pamplona, emphasizing her connection to her roots.

Watch Spanish singer Amaia play a flute made from a folding chair on NPR’s Tiny Desk Concert

Critics have noted Amaia's ability to navigate between contrasting musical styles, from the charged piano of "C'est La Vie" to the softer tones of her voice. Her performance exemplifies a blend of ferocity and delicacy, showcasing her range as both a vocalist and an instrumentalist. The incorporation of global Latin elements in her music, particularly in her latest album, adds depth to her artistic expression.

NPR

Amaia's Tiny Desk performance has been well-received, with praise for her innovative use of instruments and her ability to convey emotion through her music. The NPR team highlighted her unique sound and the seamless transitions between different musical styles during the concert.

NPR

• “She's a multi-instrumentalist, easily traipsing between piano, chair flute and — not featured in this Tiny Desk performance — her signature harp.” — NPR

NPR

Amaia's debut at NPR's Tiny Desk Concert not only highlights her musical talents but also her ability to connect with audiences through a diverse range of sounds and styles. As she continues to explore and innovate within her music, her performances promise to leave a lasting impression on the global music scene.

NPR