Aaron Copland made four highly publicized government-sponsored trips to Latin America between 1941 and 1963. During these visits, he shared contemporary American concert music with Latin American audiences, including his own violin sonata, heard on tonight’s program. Back home, he drew US attention to the composers and musicians he met in Latin America, such as Heitor Villa-Lobos of Brazil and Silvestre Revueltas and Manuel Ponce of Mexico, all whom Copland knew personally and whose works are also featured. Another contemporary of Copland was the Black American composer William Grant Still, whose Panamanian Dances were inspired by a collection of Latin American folk songs. The history of Pan-American musical exchange predates Copland.

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The Americas

Hanna Boys Center

Discover a harmonious fusion of serenity and exuberance come together at Buena Vista Winery. Our stage will be the enchanting Fountain Courtyard, framed by the historic backdrop of the 1864 Champagne Cellar. Savor the exquisite selection of Buena Vista’s wines as they complement the sultry notes of Villa-Lobos’ ‘Bachianas Brasileiras No.5’ and the fiery passion of Pablo de Sarasate’s ‘Carmen Fantasy’. Immerse yourself in the grand finale of our Alfresco series, where the blend of music, high-quality wines, and the breathtaking sunset creates an unforgettable evening.

Alfresco 3

Buena Vista Winery

Immerse yourself in the vibrant sounds of Brazil as we bring to life the musical genius of GRAMMY-award winning Brazilian guitarist, composer, and arranger Sergio Assad (b. 1953). Renowned for his captivating duo performances with his brother Odair Assad and frequent collaborations with Yo-Yo Ma and other luminaries, Assad stands as one of today’s most prolific composers for the guitar. The program presents Assad’s music alongside that of his Brazilian forebears, Antonio Carlos Gomes and Heitor Villa-Lobos, as well as his European influences, Chopin and Maurice Ravel. Bay Area guitarist—and friend of Assad’s—Marc Teicholz makes his Festival debut for this Brazilian panorama. 

Sergio Assad and His World

The centerpiece of this program is the Quartetto Concertante, op 55, by Pedro Ximenez Abrill Tirado (1784-1856), the most prolific South American composer of the first half of the 19th century. Ximenez, born in Peru during the independence movement that led to the country’s founding, hosted a famous salon at his home that was celebrated by artists and revolutionaries alike. At the invitation of the Bolivian president in 1833, Ximenez became Maestro de Capilla in Sucre, the Bolivian capital, a post he held until his death. The first half of the program includes favorites from Ximenez’s European contemporaries, Boccherini, Haydn, and Mozart.

La Música Clásica

Immerse yourself in an hour-long program curated by violinist Rachell Ellen Wong, a trailblazer in historical performance and recipient of the coveted Avery Fisher Career Grant. Experience her magic as she artfully weaves together musical selections with engaging discussions and conversations. Wine and hors d’oeuvres, as well as cabaret-style seating, compliment the proceedings. Don’t miss out on this up-close encounter, it’s a festival highlight you won’t want to pass up!

Rachell Ellen Wong

Events

Past events

Jul 27, 2024

The Americas · Valley of the Moon Music Festival

Jul 23, 2024

Alfresco 3 · Valley of the Moon Music Festival

About

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