Ramona Galarza

Ramona Modesta Onetto Galarza (15 June 1940 – 22 September 2020), most often known as Ramona Galarza, was an Argentine folk singer. She was a popular singer of chamamé and recorded over 30 albums during her career. Born in Corrientes, she later moved to Buenos Aires and became known as La Novia del Paraná. She also appeared in a number of films and was honored by the Argentine Senate.

Ramona Modesta Onetto Galarza was born on 15 June 1940 in Corrientes to Carlos Eleuterio Onetto and Mauricia Galarza. She was a soloist in the Folkloric Orchestra of Corrientes Province.

Galarza was promoted by Herminio Giménez and had a small part in the 1958 film Alto Paraná by Catrano Catrani. After achieving popularity in Corrientes, Galarza moved to Buenos Aires and became known as La Novia del Paraná. At a test for a record label, she met the producer Fernando López, who she later married. She recorded her first album, Litoraleña, in 1959. It included the songs "Kilómetro 11" and "Virgencita del Río" from the film Alto Paraná, which later became staples in her repertoire. In Buenos Aires, Galarza was a renowned singer of chamamé, singing in festivals, clubs and theaters. She was considered an ambassador of música litoraleña, and appeared on radio and television programs.

During her career, Galarza recorded over 30 albums, mostly for the Odeón record label. In 1978 she released the album Los grandes del litoral with fellow Argentine singer Antonio Tarragó Ros. She also toured around the world and gave performances at many venues, including Carnegie Hall.

Galarza was honored by the Argentine Senate in 2008 for her cultural contributions. Her final public performance was at the 2020 Chamamé National Festival where she joined Teresa Parodi and María Ofelia on stage. She was honored with the General Jose de San Martin award.

Galarza suffered a heart attack at her home in Buenos Aires and died on 22 September 2020 at Hospital Pirovano.