Simons, Moisés: El Manisero

The Peanut Vendor

Originating in Havana, Cuba, El Manisero (The Peanut Vendor) was written in the 1920s in the rumba song-and-dance style. Based on the pregón calls of a vendor advertising his wares, the trumpet imitates the vendor’s calls as he walks through the streets selling peanuts. This lively arrangement for mariachi ensemble captures the infectious, dance-driven percussive rhythms, and includes an optional vocal part, though it may be performed instrumental only.