(headline image: José Carlos Esteban-Hanza Fernández – Photo courtesy of International Festival of Cante de las Minas)
The ‘Filón’ trophy for best flamenco instrumentalist at the 64th International Festival of Cante de las Minas, along with a €6,000 award, went to 20-year-old pianist José Carlos Esteban-Hanza Fernández from Almería. Nephew of renowned guitarist ‘Tomatito,’ he performed in the final accompanied by family members: Cristóbal Santiago and Antonio Torres ‘Pescaito’ on vocals, and Moisés Santiago on percussion.

Festival organizers highlighted his skill and stage presence, noting his commitment to further study and performance.

The second prize, worth €2,000, was awarded to flutist Ostalinda Suárez from Extremadura for her interpretation of taranta cartagenera and flautasía flamenca.

