#64 - Gustavo Santaolalla - Pájaros
Explore Gustavo Santaolalla’s “Pájaros,” a minimalist piece weaving intimate ronroco timbres into a meditative journey of introspection.
Story Behind “Pájaros” by Gustavo Santaolalla
“Pájaros” (Spanish for “birds”) is one of the signature tracks from Gustavo Santaolalla’s 1998 solo album Ronroco. The piece highlights his mastery of the ronroco—a traditional Andean string instrument—bringing its warm, plucked tones to centre stage. Santaolalla’s minimalist score crafts a gentle, contemplative atmosphere, evoking images of flight, solitude, and quiet perseverance.
While not associated with a specific film, “Pájaros” has featured in various visual and audio contexts—heard in documentary soundtracks and remixed versions—becoming beloved for its soothing and evocative character .
Technical Details
Notes About “Pájaros” by Gustavo Santaolalla
Release Date: 1998 (on Ronroco)
Duration: ~2:30 (typical for the album track)
Genre: Instrumental, Minimalist
Instruments: Solo ronroco by Santaolalla
Composer & Producer: Gustavo Santaolalla
Album Details
Album: Ronroco (1998)
Label: Independent / Discmedi
Notable Fact: The album brought attention to the ronroco in global ambient and world music scenes.
Artist Details
Name: Gustavo Alfredo Santaolalla
Origin: El Palomar, Argentina
Instruments: Guitar, ronroco, banjo
Genres: Minimalist, Latin rock, Film score
Awards: Two Academy Awards for Brokeback Mountain (2006) and Babel (2007)
Interesting Facts
Signature Instrument: Santaolalla's use of the ronroco popularized the instrument beyond traditional Andean music.
Cultural Impact: Tracks like “Pájaros” helped Santaolalla transition into acclaimed film composer, earning multiple Oscars.
Widespread Use: Though not tied to a specific film, “Pájaros” has featured in soundtracks like My Blueberry Nights and in remixes, highlighting its versatile emotional resonance.