On the occasion of our season-opening concert “Raíces” on February 22 at the Teatro Metropolitano, our orchestra spoke with its guest conductor, Ana María Patiño Osorio, about the meaning of this program that connects generations of composers and musical traditions.

Filarmed: This programme connects generations of composers and musical traditions. How do you think this connection is reflected in the performance and the audience experience?

Ana Maria Patino Osorio: The musical connections in the program are very important moments. We start with Stay of Ginastera, who offers a fundamental work for 20th century Latin American music, not only for its unique language, but because that language reflects the entire culture of the continent. Its intense rhythms and dances full of vitality evoke both the struggle and the shared joy of South America. Next, the Serenade for strings by Dvorak, with a more intimate work, reminds us of simplicity as the essence of beauty. Finally, the First Symphony of Brahms is one of the greatest jewels of music, a majestic work that fuses the influences of the great masters of the Germanic tradition. This combination of composers is a perfect introduction to a concert full of contrast and sonorous richness.

Q: Dvorak and Brahms had a relationship of mutual admiration. What elements of the programme allow us to perceive this influence in their works?

AMPO: The relationship between Brahms and Dvorak It is fascinating, because, despite their stylistic differences, the two influenced each other deeply. Brahms was instrumental in boosting Dvořák's career, recommending his music to a major publisher. Brahms lived under the pressure of Germanic tradition, while Dvořák struggled to maintain his identity in a European context that invited him to change. So, although their expressions are different, both shared a determination to preserve their musical legacy, and that contrast can be clearly felt in the concert.

F: This concert opens the “Roots” season. What message or reflection do you hope the audience will take away about tradition and evolution in symphonic music?

AMPO: I hope that the audience will enjoy a sonic journey that connects traditions with musical evolution. That they will feel how society is key to musical development and how music transforms over time, but never loses its roots. Music and society are allies, they nourish each other, and this concert is a celebration of how those roots allow us to endure and continue to evolve.

F: The Suite Stay Ginastera's work transports us to the Argentine plains and its gaucho culture. How do you approach the direction of this work to highlight its energy and sonorous colors?

AMPO: Stay It is a fundamental work of the Latin American repertoire, written with great sophistication to reflect the land and the countryside. The work was conceived for ballet, so it has an energy and intensity that we must capture and maintain throughout the performance. We need to concentrate to bring the music to life, with determination, lightness and simplicity. It is a challenge, but if we succeed, the version will be incredibly powerful.

F: If you had to describe this concert in a metaphor, what would it be and why?

AMPO: I think the perfect metaphor is that of a journey. Like Brahms' symphony, which took years to complete, the concerto is an example of determination and conviction. Each composer, with his own path, teaches us not to give up on dreams. The struggles of Ginastera, Dvořák and Brahms tell us to be faithful to our roots while evolving.

F: What does a concert season called “Roots” symbolize for you?

AMPO: “Raíces” is a tribute to authenticity, to the richness of Latin American music. For me, it is essential that the Medellín Philharmonic Orchestra supports Latin American talents, that we never lose our connection with who we are and what inspires us. This approach is necessary to keep us lucid, strong and prepared for global challenges. The orchestra not only raises fundamental questions, but also offers answers through its music, which is undoubtedly inspiring and necessary for everyone.

The concert
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