HISTORY
The Pasillo had its origins in the European Waltz (Vals in Spanish), at least this is what some historians claim. Waltz was enjoyed and danced publicly by high classes. But, centuries had to pass before having what now we know as Ecuadorian Pasillo,
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Venezuela, Colombia and Ecuador were influenced by the Waltz, but it is known that now even coutries like Costa Rica, Cuba, Mexico, Peru, and Argentina keep the Pasillo as coreography.
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However from all the above mentioned countries, Ecuador has adopted the Pasillo as its national music style. In 1880, the Pasillo was a popular dance in Quito, Ecuador; it was danced in ballrooms accompanied by piano. High elite classes were favoured with this rich music style; but something happened.......
(The Pasillo) survives, indeed, evoked in the unconscious memories of thousands of Ecuadorians who still use it to express their feelings and motivate introspection and catharsis.
Wilma Granda
Ecuadorian Film and Music Researcher
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