The communities surrounding the Las Bambas operation have rich traditions.

Supporting local cultural activities is one of the many ways that Las Bambas contributes to the communities near the mine.

In 2016 the Artists Association “Cuerdas de Qorilazo” and Las Bambas organised a singing and music festival: “Llaqtanchispa Takiynin Velille 2016” to promote and share the indigenous music of the Cusco district. The event was the first of its kind in the area, and 32 groups participated.

There were two categories in the competition: professional and amateur. Participating artists interpreted songs related to their customs to the beat of different Peruvian musical genres including Qhaswa, Huayno, Fox, Toril and Marinera.

The judging panel was made up of well-known musicians from the Cusco region. Conjunto Yahaira Domínguez won the professional category and Melodía Velille won the amateur category.

“Such events strengthen the music of Velille, and give continuity to the traditions and customs of the people. With the support of Las Bambas we will continue working in the development of the district,” said tribute artist Felipe Gongora, the most well-known mandolin player in Peru.

Pictured: Musicians from the Ccapaccasa community in Mara district. In current local music, common elements are female vocals, the Andean harp, the violin, and the quena – an Andean flute.