Dive into the rich musical landscape of Puerto Rican composer Roberto Sierra with his captivating album "Cantares, Loíza & Triple Concierto." Released on May 22, 2020, under the prestigious Naxos label, this album is a testament to Sierra's unique ability to blend contemporary compositional techniques with his deep-rooted cultural heritage.
The album features three distinct works that showcase Sierra's refined compositional voice. "Cantares" is a three-movement piece that weaves together traditional Puerto Rican melodies and rhythms with modern orchestration. The title track, "Hanacpachap cussicuinin," is a beautiful arrangement of a traditional Andean hymn, while "Canto lucumí" draws inspiration from the Afro-Cuban Lucumí tradition. "Loíza," named after a town in Puerto Rico, is a vibrant and energetic piece that pays homage to the island's rich cultural heritage.
The centerpiece of the album is the "Triple Concierto for Violin, Cello & Piano," a dynamic and engaging work that showcases the virtuosity of the soloists. The concerto is divided into three movements, each with its own unique character and rhythmic drive. From the energetic opening movement to the lively, merengue-inspired finale, this concerto is a thrilling journey through Sierra's musical world.
Performed by the Xalapa Symphony Orchestra under the baton of Lanfranco Marcelletti, and featuring soloists Roberto Isaacs and the Arbos Trio, this album is a stunning showcase of Sierra's compositional prowess and his deep connection to his cultural roots. With a duration of just over an hour, this album is a captivating exploration of Roberto Sierra's unique musical voice.