Vivaldi in Spain

The YAO Percussion Ensemble opens Vivaldi in Spain with works by American composers covering diverse rhythms and effects. The rhythm section is one of the most important aspects of any music ensemble, and works like Fellinger’s Snarevolution provide are true indications of the rise in popularity of drumlines, taiko drumming, and drum circles. Speaking of rhythm, effects, and popularity, Antonio Vivaldi wrote more than 500 concertos. Today, most people can identify four of them. But those four, which we have come to recognize as The Four Seasons, have become part of our cultural fabric. They’re constantly played in movie soundtracks, on TV ads or radio jingles. Today’s performance welcomes Las Vegas Philharmonic concertmaster, De Ann Letourneau, who’s performances have been described by the Duluth News Tribune as “..sensationally vibrant from beginning to end.” Historically, Vivaldi never did visit Spain. Yet, much like the seasons put Vivaldi on the map, so did Rodrigo’s guitar masterpiece. The Concierto de Aranjuez is one of the miraculous compositions of the 20th century, and one of the most famous classical works that has come out of Spain. Up and coming classical guitarist makes his YAO debut in Rodrigo’s masterpiece.

This event marks the second appearance of De Ann Letourneau with the YAO program, and the first appearance by guitarist Michan Walsh.