New York University's program in piano studies, in conjunction with the King Juan Carlos I of Spain Center, hosts a weekend festival of Spanish and Latin American piano music on February 20 and 21. Featuring a recital by Eduardus Halim, world-renowned pianist and artist faculty member at NYU's Steinhardt School, the two-day festival will explore the connections between the traditional piano repertoire and contemporary Spanish and Latin American music.
“What is unusual about this repertoire is how forward-looking the repertoire is," said Marilyn Nonken, director of piano studies at NYU. “Throughout the twentieth century, Spanish and Latin American composers found truly unique ways to synthesize elements of tradition with elements of the avant-garde."
All of the events are free and open to the public. For more information, call 212.998.5424.
Fri., Feb. 20, 4 p.m.
Panel discussion: “Latino Composers on Latin American Composition Today." Manuel Laufer moderates a discussion with composers including Ezequiel Viao, Manual Sosa, and Tania Leon, exploring the relationship among new music, culture, tradition, and politics. Location: King Juan Carlos I of Spain Center, 53 Washington Square North.
Fri., Feb. 20, 8 p.m.
Artist Faculty Recital: Eduardus Halim. The renowned pianist performs Granadoss complete Goyescas. Location: Frederick Loewe Theatre, 35 West 4th Street.
Sat., Feb. 21, 3 p.m.
Lecture: “Traditional Spanish Dance and Music." Dancer Sara Erde and guitarist Rafael Brunn demonstrate the movements and rhythms of traditional Spanish dance, exploring their influence on the piano repertoire. Location: Black Box Theatre, 82 Washington Square East.
Sat., Feb. 21, 8 p.m.
Performance: “A Celebration of Spanish and Latin American Piano Music." An evening of piano music featuring works by Albeniz, Granados, Turina, Falla, and Piazolla, performed by the pianists of NYUs Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development. The evening will also feature a tribute to composer Maurizio Kagel, who died in 2008. Location: Frederick Loewe Theatre, 35 West 4th Street.
For more information contact All About Jazz.
