Ch'ayña singers will perform quechua songs for Pope Leo XIV in Cusco

Members of the "brazo izquierdo" and "brazo derecho" musical brotherhoods in Cusco will perform traditional Quechua songs for Pope Leo XIV during his visit to the city on November 15.

The performers will provide music at the Sacsayhuamán archaeological site and the Plaza de Armas. The musical tradition of the Ch'ayñas is inspired by the birds of the same name, which sing in the early morning during the spring months.

Local musicians imitate the sharp, high-pitched calls of these birds to create a unique religious repertoire. These performers use a variety of instruments, including violins, harps, accordions, and mandolins. The "brazo derecho" group will perform the song "Apuyaya Jesucristo" in the main square next to the image of the Señor de Los Temblores. This group will select 70 members to participate in the event.

The "brazo izquierdo" group will perform at Sacsayhuamán during the presentation of the Papal Golden Rose to the Virgin Queen of Belén. This group will include 60 members and will use a restored Pampa Piano that the Pilco family used in the early 20th century. The brotherhoods have maintained these traditions for decades, even after the original group split into different branches following the 1950s.

The singers view the upcoming papal visit as an opportunity to share their faith and heritage.