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Parang is a style of music played in Trinidad and Tobago during the Christmas season. It is often played with just a small guitar called a quattro and maracas (locally known as shak-shaks), and is often sung in Spanish. Although it is much less common in modern times, musicians called Paranderos still roam the streets playing this music and serenading people.
Notable parang artists include Daisy Voisin, Henry Perierra, Sharlene Flores and Leon Caldero, although many artists that typically play soca music will also record parang tunes.
Traditionally the parandero travelled from house to house in the community and was often joined by member of the household using whatever instruments were at hand, including "bottle and spoon" (a bottle or glass partially filled with water and a spoon or fork). In exchange for the entertainment the paranderos would be given food and rum or poncha creme (an alcohol-rich eggnog). The practice of paranging remains an important element of visiting friends and relatives during the Christmas season.
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