Torelli the controversial

Like most Italians known for their passionate and highly emotional character, Giuseppe Torelli is the man of his people. Same sensuality and fineness in his music. However, not all of his fellow composers or critics were steadily sticking to the same opinion. While Hutchings considered him a composer lacking originality, Apel thought he was even over-exceptional. That’s where the controversy lies. But all agree on the fact that Torelli was at certain aspects unrivalled, even by Vivaldi who came after him. He is deservedly called the inventor of the instrumental concerto and his music language is more than inimitable. Take only the wonderful operatic aria “Tu lo sai“ (“You Know”), intense, feverish and at the same time restrained and reserved. Torelli was a pioneer in inserting slow movements in his concertos, sonatas and symphonies. Besides, he was a virtuoso violinist probably ranking one of the highest performers of his time.

Ignacio Cervantes — Six Cuban Dances

For Europeans countries of Latin America have always seemed exotic, original and full mysterious charm. Cuba is one the indisputable samples of Latin originality. A country of happy people with warm hearts and exclusive traditions. So is their culture and so is their music. Ignacio Cervantes is a virtuoso representative of his people, a prodigy composer by birth. A pioneer of native Cuban music, he showed exceptional devotion to his motherland and conveyed its beauty to the outer world through music. One of brightest dedications is a set of pieces called Six Cuban Dances, originally composed for piano. These short works are full of lively Cuban rhythms and tones. Cervantes’ Dances – or Danzas Cubanas – are perfect for any musical purpose, be it recital, educational concert or just own enjoyment. All in all, Ignacio Cervantes composed 42 dances.