Ceila Fong Padrón, known in the music world as Xei, astounded the renowned Mexican band Maná with her exceptional bagpipe playing in Santiago de Compostela. Her performance of a traditional tune on the steps of the Arco de Xelmírez, near the iconic cathedral, left the band mesmerized.
This unexpected encounter took place last Friday, just before Maná's performance at the O Gozo Festival. So impressed were they by her rendition of the muiñeiras, a lively traditional Galician music, that they invited her to join them on stage.
Originally from Santiago de Cuba, Xei relocated to Galicia over two decades ago for her Chemistry studies. However, her passion for Galician folk music eventually took center stage in her life. For the past ten years, she has been a vibrant cultural presence, playing the bagpipes in Santiago de Compostela's historic district.
"I was playing a tune when a group of people paused to listen. They requested more lively pieces, so I played several fast muiñeiras, including A Freixa," Xei recounted to La Voz de Galicia. Unbeknownst to her, the listeners were none other than members of Maná. After chatting and taking photos with them, a tour guide revealed their identities.
Once she realized who they were, the band invited her to perform with them at their next concert at Monte do Gozo, marking the end of their tour in the Iberian Peninsula. Though honored, Xei declined due to a lack of rehearsal time. Instead, Maná gifted her tickets to the show, where the renowned bagpiper Carlos Núñez performed as a special guest.
"I don't regret saying no, but it was a lovely gesture. It's incredible how approachable they are after so many years in the business," Xei remarked.
Ceila Fong's journey mirrors that of many Cubans who, away from their homeland, manage to carve out a niche and excel in vastly different cultural landscapes. Today, she thrives as a musician and tends to her own garden, fully embracing her life in Galicia while proudly maintaining her dual identity.
Questions about Ceila Fong and Her Encounter with Maná
Who is Ceila Fong Padrón?
Ceila Fong Padrón, also known as Xei, is a Cuban musician who plays the Galician bagpipe and has become a cultural icon in Santiago de Compostela, Spain.
What led to the unexpected meeting between Xei and Maná?
The meeting occurred when Xei was performing traditional Galician music on the steps of the Arco de Xelmírez, and Maná was captivated by her performance, leading to a memorable interaction.
Why did Xei decline Maná's invitation to perform with them?
Xei chose not to perform with Maná because she had not rehearsed with the band and felt unprepared for the concert.