Saxophonist Alba Gil Aceytuno Highlights Canarian Identity at San Sebastián Jazzaldia

The recent San Sebastián Jazzaldia festival shone a spotlight on emerging talent, most notably saxophonist Alba Gil Aceytuno. The Canary Islands native used the festival’s JazzEñe program—an SGAE Foundation initiative designed to help Spanish musicians reach international audiences—to showcase her solo project, Pleito.

Born in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria in 1997, Gil Aceytuno’s career reflects a journey from formal conservatory training to modern experimentation. After years of mastering the classical saxophone, she has redefined the instrument’s role. By incorporating techniques like circular breathing and sound loops, she transforms the saxophone from a traditional soloist into a structural foundation that carries both melody and accompaniment.

This unique approach is captured on her 2023 album, loscoloresdelaspiedras. Beyond technical skill, the work carries a deep cultural and political message. Gil Aceytuno uses her music to reclaim her Canarian identity, even incorporating traditional island percussion—such as the use of limpets—to reflect the sociopolitical reality of the archipelago. Featuring collaborations with artists like Lajalada and Fajardo, the album is a deliberate effort to highlight a cultural legacy that she feels has often been overlooked.

Her appearance at the San Sebastián festival also highlights the challenges faced by artists living in the Canary Islands. The physical distance from the mainland can make it difficult to break into the national music scene, making programs like JazzEñe essential for gaining visibility. Through her solo work, Gil Aceytuno is not only establishing her own artistic voice but also proving that contemporary Spanish jazz can be a powerful tool for both technical innovation and cultural expression.