The star of this concert is a true world-renowned artist: Pepe Romero, celebrated classical and flamenco guitarist. Born in Málaga, Spain, he has lived in the United States since the age of thirteen. His father, Celedonio Romero — composer of the second work on the program — taught him and launched his solo career.
Every piece on the program radiates the spirit of the Spanish national character: music of tight rhythms, elegance, and passion. Although Georges Bizet, the composer of the opera Carmen, was French, the orchestral suite assembled from the opera’s excerpts evokes the very same vibrant world.
Photo: Pepe Romero © Paul Carter
Andrés Gaos: Impresión Nocturna
Celedonio Romero: Concierto de Málaga
Joaquín Rodrigo: Concierto de Aranjuez
Georges Bizet: Carmen – Suites Nos. 1 and 2