Lo Schiavo (The Slave) (1889) is Gomes’s only mature opera to have been first performed outside Italy, namely in Rio de Janeiro. Gomes took on the project at the suggestion of the Brazilian Viscount Taunay, an ardent opponent of slavery.
The plot involves tensions between and within two groups: colonists and slaves. The viscount set the plot in 1801 and made the slaves African in origin (reflecting the massive numbers of enslaved Africans that had been brought over to Brazil during the preceding two centuries).
5/5 A Tribute to Silvestre Revueltas The mastery of this Mexican genius will be highlighted in works for the orchestra, chamber groups and solo instruments. Elbio Barilari will share some of his favorite recordings and give details on one of the great composers of the 20th century.
5/12 The Super Guitar Show Some of the greatest performers and composers of the guitar have come from Latin America and Spain. Elbio Barilari shares some of his favorite pieces for this versatile instrument and some of the most important works for classical guitar. Included are guitarists Abel Carlevaro, Eduardo Fernandez and Manuel Barrueco with master composers José Ardévol, Federico Moreno Torroba and Heitor Villa-Lobos.
5/19 A 19th Century Brazilian Opera: Lo Schiavo by Carlos Gomes A rarely heard opera from the great Brazilian composer Carlos Gomes, Lo Schiavo is a drama involving Brazilians and Portuguese; this is the love story of Américo, son of Count Rodrigo, and Ilàra, who is being forced to marry another. We will hear highlights from this romantic opera.
5/26 Latino Salon Popular in Europe in the 19th century, salon music made its way over to Latin America. Embraced by many composers and performers, this style of music took on a new life across the ocean. Featured on this program is music from Venezuela, Mexico, and Brazil.
