Following the whistles of my homeland: my Final Degree Project
Welcome to my personal space within ‘Translating the Air: Silbo Gomero’. Here, I would like to share with you the story behind this final-year project, what inspired me to research the fascinating Gomero whistle, and what you might discover through my research.
My roots, my inspiration
My name is Elena Tena de Paz, and I am a Modern Languages and Translation student at the University of Alcalá. However, I come from La Palma, one of the wonderful Canary Islands.
My interest in our culture and heritage has always been a constant in my life. Silbo Gomero, with its unique form of communication, captured my curiosity a long time ago.
After four years of university studies, including an Erasmus+ year abroad at the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz in Germany, the time came to complete my Final Degree Project.
Although I completed my internship at 'Revista Car' as a translator and editor, working with luxury car articles (one of my passions) when it came to choosing a topic for my Final Degree Project, I did not hesitate to focus on something deeply connected to our islands. The Silbo Gomero became the perfect choice to explore our rich traditions, even though I come from a neighbouring island.
Canary Islands: Much more than sun and beaches
If I had to choose one central message for my dissertation, it would be this: the Canary Islands are much more than their idyllic beaches and enviable climate. Our land is home to a unique cultural and intangible heritage, and Silbo Gomero is a clear example of this. Through this project, I aim to highlight the depth and richness of our identity, which often goes unnoticed behind the islands’ tourist appeal.
Photograph courtesy of the Tourism Board of the Asociación Cultural Silbo Gomero.
Unveiling the secrets of whistled speech
My greatest wish is that, through exploring my work, readers will discover the characteristics and profound importance of Silbo Gomero. It is not simply a series of whistles, but rather a sophisticated form of communication with a unique structure. I hope this project changes their perception and encourages them to appreciate the complexity of this cultural treasure.
Photograph courtesy of the Tourism Board of the Cabildo of La Gomera
A legacy that deserves to be heard
This Final Degree Project has been a fascinating journey into the heart of my culture. I hope my research inspires readers to appreciate the uniqueness of Silbo Gomero and to recognise the immense richness of Canarian heritage. Thank you for joining me on this journey.