The "Cuban Dances" for solo horn, strings, and percussion were commissioned by Sarah Willis from six talented young Cuban composers, making it the first-ever Cuban horn concerto.
Interpretation
Sarah Willis, the horn player, learned to dance the traditional Cuban dances featured on the album, as her Cuban friends told her, "if you can't dance them, you can't play them."
Recording & Production
The "Cuban Dances" project became a Covid lockdown endeavor, with long-distance collaboration and creativity providing inspiration during tough times.
Compositional Technique
Each movement of "Cuban Dances" is a fresh and modern adaptation of well-known Cuban dances, with composers challenged to write original melodies to traditional dance rhythms.
Album & Artwork
This album, "Mozart y Mambo Cuban Dances," is a follow-up to the original "Mozart y Mambo" project, continuing the collaboration between Sarah Willis and the Havana Lyceum Orchestra.
Instruments
Through sales of the first "Mozart y Mambo" album, funds were raised for the 'Instruments Donation' fund, allowing the Havana Lyceum Orchestra to play on many new and donated instruments for this recording.
Performer Biography
José Antonio Méndez Padrón, conductor of the Havana Lyceum Orchestra, is known for his dedication to promoting classical music in Cuba and his belief that Cuban popular music has roots in classical traditions.
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