Touch of Argentina in Stradivari Season concert

The Stradivari Season is taking an Argentine twist to celebrate its 50th concert, which is being held at the Manoel Theatre tomorrow evening.

Combining Maltese and international soloists and interludes of dance, the concert presents the unique music of Astor Piazzolla.

Born in Mar del Plata, Argentina, in 1921, the young Mr Piazzolla moved to New York in 1925, beginning a lifelong process of multiple influences that coloured and drove his unique music writing.

Mr Piazzolla is regarded as the foremost composer of tango music but the classical training he received means that his music is also to be found in the repertoires of today's top musicians.

In addition to writing music, Mr Piazzolla was a noted performer and many regard him as the greatest bandoneonist (the large Latin American instrument derived from the accordion). This instrument features extensively in his compositions and is being played by renowned Russian accordionist Yuri Charyguine at the Manoel.

The fusion of jazz, Latin and classical styles, with which Mr Piazzolla produced Tango Nuevo is reflected in the pieces being performed, including favourites such as Libertango, Oblivion, Grand Tango and The Four Seasons.

On stage will be violinists James Grech (artistic director and founder of the Stradivari Season) and Marius Stravinsky, while pianist Eleonora Bekova makes a welcome return to Malta. Violists Romeo Giacomotto and Stephen Galea, Romanian cellist Valeriu Popovici, Bulgarian double bassist Margherita Kalcheva and English oboist John McDonough complete the instrumental forces.

They are being joined by dancers Catherine Cassar and Duncan Formosa.

Booking for the concert can be made from the Manoel Theatre booking office tel. 2124 6389; fax 2123 7340; e-mail bookings@teatrumanoel.com.mt; online bookings www.manoeltheatre.com Reservations can also be made on tel. 9945 7126, 7974 4547, 9986 4967.

Transport is being provided from any hotel to the theatre and return at a charge of Lm1. Seat reservations are to be made at the time of booking the concert tickets.

www.stradivariseason.com