Gran Coquivacoa, a Venezuelan musical group specializing in gaita zuliana, was founded in 1968 in Cabimas, Estado Zulia. The original members included Jesús "Bocachico" Petit, Nelson Rincón Suárez, Rody Tigrera, Pedro Mavarez, Pedro Arteaga and Gerald Rondon . In 1969, Nelson Martínez joined the group, contributing to their early success with his tamboreras. Abdénago de Jesús Borjas Urdaneta became the leader in 1976. Gran Coquivacoa released their debut album Conjunto Coquivacoa in 1969 and produced numerous albums including Seguimos Gateando (1971), El Gaitón del Diablo (1972), and La Máquina del Sabor (1987). Notable songs include "Sin Rencor" (1978) and "La Retreta" (2000). The group won the award for Best Gaita of the Year at the Festival de Gaitas Virgilio Carruyo from 1986 to 1989 with hits like "Las Cabras" (1986) and "Punta Icotea" (1987). Gran Coquivacoa has been recognized as "Hijos Ilustres" of Cabimas, and their music has been celebrated in Venezuela.
