La avanzada
The rhythm Oscar Safuán introduced in 1977, fusing polka, guarania and Brazilian touches.
What it is
The avanzada is a folk-inspired genre created by composer and arranger Oscar Nelson Safuán. It grew out of a fusion of the Paraguayan polka and the guarania, with influences from bossa nova and the ballad. Safuán researched the idea from 1974 and presented it in Asunción in 1977 with 'Tema paraguayo'. In his own words it is neither polka nor guarania but a new rhythm born from both. It won important supporters, and also critics among traditionalists.
Did you know…?
Safuán discovered bossa nova during his years in Brazil and wondered why Paraguayans could not also invent a new rhythm.
Listen to
'Tema paraguayo' and Safuán's 'Nacionales', to hear a polka passed through bossa nova.
Music & dance
Researched and reviewed in September 2026 with 2 sources. A second reviewer checked dates, coordinates and lodging. Hours and prices may change.