Born MarÍa de la ConcepciÓn Piquer López, Concha Piquer’s name echoes through Spanish musical history. This Concha Piquer Plaque commemorates her life. Let’s delve into the story of this iconic figure.
Concha Piquer was more than a singer. She was an actress. Concha Piquer became a pivotal figure in the world of copla. Copla is a genre of Spanish song.
Born in Valencia on December 13 1906, Concha Piquer defied humble beginnings. Her family had lost four children prematurely. Her father was a bricklayer. Her mother was a seamstress. Concha Piquer’s talent shone early. At eleven, she debuted at Valencia’s Teatro Sogueros.
Manuel Penella discovered her. He was preparing his zarzuela “El Gato Montés” for its New York premiere. He invited Concha Piquer to join him.
In 1922, at just 14, Concha Piquer debuted in New York City. She performed “El Florero”. She spent five years in the United States. Concha Piquer sang on Broadway. She performed in many theaters. She shared the stage with stars like Eddie Cantor. She appeared with Al Jolson. She even performed with Fred and Adele Astaire.
In 1923, Concha Piquer starred in a short film. It was titled “From Far Seville”. Lee de Forest created it using his Phonofilm sound-on-film process. The film is considered the first sound-integrated film.
Concha Piquer returned to Spain. She starred in “El negro que tenía el alma blanca” and “La Bodega”. In 1933, she met bullfighter Antonio Márquez. They married in 1945 in Montevideo. They had a daughter named Concha Márquez Piquer.
Concha Piquer collaborated with Rafael de León. She also worked with Antonio Quintero. They created popular songs like “La Parrala”. Her other famous songs include “Tatuaje” and “Ojos Verdes”.
Concha Piquer created her own company. She managed her shows with an iron fist. She demanded punctuality and professionalism. Concha Piquer had learned discipline on Broadway.
Concha Piquer’s last performance was in 1958. She retired after losing her voice momentarily. However, she continued recording until 1963. Her final hit was “Cinco Farolas”.
Concha Piquer died in Madrid on December 12 1990. She is buried in the Cementerio de San Isidro. Valencia honored her with a street. The city also turned her house into a museum.
This Concha Piquer Plaque serves as a reminder. It honors a true icon of Spanish music. Her voice may be silent but her legacy lives on. It inspires generations.