On September 26, the Teatro Esperanza will host an unforgettable evening: the concert «BROUWER PORTRAIT», honoring the renowned Cuban composer, guitarist, and conductor Leo Brouwer, a key figure in contemporary classical music. The event is part of the VOCES series presented by the Esperanza Arts Center.

The concert is included in the 2025/2026 season titled «Orígenes», which celebrates Indigenous roots and Latin creativity. The program will feature iconic works by Maestro Brouwer such as El mito de Sísifo, Perpetuum Mobile, the Toronto Concerto, Sones y danzones, and the world premiere of a new piece inspired by Latin American Indigenous traditions, composed especially for the occasion.

In an exclusive written interview, Brouwer expressed his gratitude: «For any living composer, it is a great joy to have one of their works performed, even more so when it is a monographic concert. That it takes place in a city with such a rich cultural history as Philadelphia makes me feel doubly honored.»

The selection of Network for New Music, an ensemble with over 40 years of experience performing contemporary music, was no coincidence. Their collaboration with Brouwer has already borne fruit this year with the creation of two new works: «Being asked to write music specifically for them has also brought me great satisfaction.»

Art as Resistance and Cultural Legacy

True to his thoughtful and critical perspective, Brouwer also addressed the role of art in Latin American contexts: «Music plays a vital role in preserving cultural identity around the world. It’s not fashion, politics, or politicians that endure it is art and the folklore of the people that survive.»

In this light, he praised initiatives like those of Esperanza Arts Center, which highlight Latin American musical heritage often overlooked by official institutions: “These are necessary projects that showcase repertoires usually buried by the system’s overall inefficiency,» said Brouwer.

New Works and a Living Legacy

At 86 years old, Brouwer remains remarkably active and prolific, yet his most ambitious project is still ahead: “In future plans, there’s the opera I’ve been thinking about for over 40 years. Finally, it’s time has come.»

To the New Generations

Brouwer also shared a message for young composers and guitarists: “Value your cultural roots, but don’t be limited by them. Our folklore offers an infinite wealth that must be reinterpreted in a contemporary language. New generations should have greater richness in their ideas without rejecting or devaluing what they don’t know or understand.»

A Concert Not to Miss

On September 26, Philadelphia will celebrate Leo Brouwer with a tribute that unites music, identity, and cultural memory. As the Maestro affirms: “Music keeps that identity alive by expressing it sonically and preserves it by reinventing it in the contemporary world.»

For more information go to esperanzaartscenter.us