La Laguna Marks a New Era with Its First Christmas Concert Featuring a Symphony Orchestra

On December 25, the picturesque city of La Laguna celebrated a momentous occasion with the inaugural Christmas concert that showcased the debut of its first-ever symphony orchestra. This event not only highlighted the city’s rich cultural heritage but also set the stage for a new chapter in its musical landscape.

Illustrious Performers Take the Stage

The concert was a star-studded affair, featuring a talented ensemble that captivated the audience with their performances. Among the celebrated artists were tenor Pancho Corujo and the versatile vocalist Cristina Ramos, both of whom brought their unique styles and charisma to the stage. The event also spotlighted the exceptional skills of Benito Cabrera, a beloved timple player whose contributions to the local music scene have made him a household name.

Inspiring Collaboration with Young Voices

Enhancing the concert’s emotional depth was the participation of the Children’s Choir from the Professional Conservatory of Music in Santa Cruz de Tenerife. Under the expert direction of Juan Ramón Vinagre, the choir’s young voices added a layer of innocence and joy to the performance, making the Christmas celebration even more special. Their harmonious contributions resonated throughout the Teatro Leal, creating a memorable experience for all attendees.

A Rich Tapestry of Musical Selections

The concert’s repertoire was a delightful mix of classical and contemporary works, showcasing the versatility of the newly formed orchestra. Audiences were treated to timeless pieces from renowned composers such as Bizet, Gounod, Mascagni, and Puccini. In addition to these classical masterpieces, the program also featured contemporary compositions by John Cohen and John Wade, culminating in a heartfelt rendition of the Christmas carol “Una sobre el mismo mar,” composed by the talented Benito Cabrera.

The Birth of a New Musical Institution

The establishment of the La Laguna Symphony Orchestra was officially announced by Adrián del Castillo, the Cultural Councillor of La Laguna. This ambitious initiative was developed in collaboration with the Guillermo González Municipal Music School, under the leadership of David Martel, and the Autonomous Organisation for Musical Activities. The orchestra is comprised of approximately sixty musicians, primarily hailing from the Canary Islands, and aims to host a variety of special concerts throughout the year while also integrating students from various conservatories into its performances.

Celebrating Original Works

A highlight of the concert was the inclusion of original compositions, notably “Hespérides,” created by Canarian composer Emilio Coello. This piece was commissioned to commemorate the 110th anniversary of the Teatro Leal and is a reflection of Canarian identity. Through its musical contrasts and traditional genres, including folías, isas, tajarastes, and seguidillas, “Hespérides” also incorporates vibrant Latin rhythms, paying homage to the theatre’s founder, Antonio Leal. The performance of this piece added a unique cultural dimension to the concert, celebrating both the past and the present of Canarian music.

A Landmark Achievement for La Laguna

Luis Yeray Gutiérrez, the mayor of La Laguna, has been instrumental in the creation of the city’s first symphony orchestra. The launch of the La Laguna Symphony Orchestra, celebrated with the inaugural Christmas Concert at the historic Teatro Leal, marks a significant cultural milestone for the city. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, La Laguna is now poised to enhance its cultural offerings and foster a deeper appreciation for the arts within the community.

Key points

• The Christmas concert on December 25 marked the debut of La Laguna’s first symphony orchestra.
• Renowned artists Pancho Corujo and Cristina Ramos performed alongside local musician Benito Cabrera.
• The Children’s Choir from the Professional Conservatory of Music participated in the concert.
• The repertoire included works by Bizet, Gounod, Mascagni, Puccini, and contemporary composers.
• The orchestra was established in collaboration with the Guillermo González Municipal Music School.
• Original compositions were featured, including “Hespérides” by Emilio Coello.
• The event was a significant cultural milestone for La Laguna, a UNESCO World Heritage site.