Cuban Symphony Orchestra closes season with world premiere of Yalil Guerra

August 4, 2018

The current season of the National Symphony Orchestra of Cuba, directed by maestro Enrique Pérez Mesa, will close this Sunday, August 5, 2018, at 11:00 a.m., in the Covarrubias Hall of the National Theater of Cuba.

In the epilogue, the distinguished symphonic group has reserved a formidable program with works by outstanding Cuban composers that include "String Serenade" by Harold Gramatges, "Intrata" by Aurelio de la Vega, and "Symphony No. 1 La Palma Real" by Yalil Guerra.

The piece is the first symphonic work by maestro Guerra dedicated to the Apostle of Cuba, José Martí. It consists of four movements: "The Exile," "The Battle of Dos Ríos," "Elegy," and "The Legacy," which reflect different moments in the life of the National Hero.

In it, Yalil masterfully develops complex forms of musical composition, employed by great musicians throughout musical history such as: Johann Sebastian Bach, Ludwig van Beethoven, and Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart.

In the words of Yalil himself, this large-scale work is a contribution that honors the legacy of our National Hero, as an inspiration for thought and conscience in Cubans.

Guerra (Havana, April 27, 1973) is a recognized Cuban composer who has completed studies in classical guitar at the National School of Art and the Superior Institute of Art. He is also a master's degree holder in Classical Guitar, Counterpoint and Fugue, from the Superior Conservatory of Music in Madrid, Spain.

Since 2000 he has resided in the United States, where he obtained a master's degree in film music and a scholarship to pursue doctoral studies at the prestigious UCLA university in Los Angeles.

Among other accolades and recognition, Yalil Guerra has been awarded the Latin Grammy Award, 2012, in the Best Classical Composition category. On six other occasions he has been nominated for the award at this prestigious competition.

In his already long artistic career, he has worked and collaborated with many artists as a musician and producer, among whom stand out: Cristian Castro, Celia Cruz, Isaac Delgado.

Source: Radio Enciclopedia