Una canción régia

Les Luthiers, an Argentine musical comedy group known for their clever and humorous performances, present 'Una canción régia' as a satirical and light-hearted tribute to a queen. The song is performed in a courtly setting, where the musicians are summoned to entertain the royalty. The lyrics, delivered with a mix of admiration and irony, highlight the queen's attributes in a manner that is both flattering and subtly comical.

The song begins with a declaration of admiration for the queen, describing her intelligence, delicate features, and maternal qualities. However, the exaggerated praise and the mention of her 'diminutive nose' and 'maternal breasts' add a layer of humor, poking fun at the overly formal and sometimes absurd nature of courtly flattery. The musicians' performance is met with laughter and applause, indicating that the audience is in on the joke.

As the song progresses, the humor intensifies with the introduction of a canon, a musical form where one voice starts and another follows, imitating the first. The second musician, who does not know the lyrics, attempts to follow along, leading to a series of amusing missteps and repetitions. This playful interaction not only showcases the musicians' comedic timing but also underscores the absurdity of the situation. The song concludes with a humorous twist, as the musicians' flattery inadvertently offends the king, resulting in a chaotic and comical ending.

'Una canción régia' is a brilliant example of Les Luthiers' ability to blend music, comedy, and satire. Through clever lyrics and humorous performance, they create a piece that entertains while subtly critiquing the pretensions of courtly life. The song's playful tone and witty execution make it a memorable and enjoyable experience for the audience.