With works by Vivaldi and Bach, the La Serena University Symphony Orchestra inaugurated its cycle of chamber performances for the 2018 season.

Two communes and more than 400 people witnessed the first concert in chamber format, as intimate as at home, which on this occasion was performed by the string and wind ensemble of the Universidad de La Serena Symphony Orchestra in the communes of Vicuña and The Serena. The successful event included a captivating journey through the Baroque period, with pieces by two masterful European composers.

Attendees of different ages enjoyed the “Concerto for two trumpets in C Major”, “Concerto for bassoon RV 484” and “Concerto for two violins and continuo in D Minor, Op.3 N°11” by Antonio Lucio Vivaldi, in addition to the “Orchestral Suite N°2 BWV 1067 in B Minor for flutes and strings” composed by the German Johann Sebastian Bach, which were performed by Leonardo Godoy, Ramiro Álvarez, Cecilia Olmos, Pamela Morales and Vanessa Flores (violins), Daniela Gayoso and Poliana Brehmer (violas), Ana María Vega and Monserrat Trujillo (violoncello), Andrés Carvajal (double bass), Alonso Araya (harpsichord), Rodrigo López (flute), Francisco Ramos (bassoon), Sergio Fuentes and Cristian Monreal (trumpets).

Marcelo Quinzacara, who came to the Municipal Theater of Vicuña to enjoy the proposal offered in this territorial extension concert, stated that “the presentation was fantastic, the truth is that I was very pleased and I realized that the audience that came, the which was quite a bit, he also enjoyed it. It is an honor to be able to have this type of activities in our community, a highly enriching and free activity, which is very important. I like that culture is supported and spread in Vicuña, because this is a valuable cultural center where not only Chilean tourists attend, but also many foreigners,” he said.

While Gloria Sandoval indicated that this presentation “I loved it because it was very exciting and I consider myself a lover of classical music and Vivaldi's compositions, which I enjoyed a lot. “I recognized each of the works that were performed, but I also learned and got to know what the bassoon is.”

Mayor Rafael Vera himself referred to the valuable alliance that the Municipality of Vicuña maintains with the University of La Serena Symphony Orchestra for the third consecutive year, allowing this type of concerts and chamber formats to be brought to the heart of the Elqui Valley: “we are fascinated with the trust, affection and talent of this impeccable orchestra and the musicians who gave us a very intimate and beautiful chamber concert; a presentation that marks the opening of this great concert series here in Vicuña. This shows once again that Gabriela Mistral's crib is recovering its spaces and is enjoying each of the events that take place here; Today we had a really full municipal theater and we thank each of our neighbors and the family who were present.”

Subsequently, the string and wind ensemble moved to the regional capital, where it impacted the public with its program inspired by the baroque period and the interpretive ability of its musicians.

“I loved the quality and passion that the soloists projected, they are all very good. Furthermore, the selection of the works they played and the period in which it is framed was truly incredible,” commented Viviana Bobba. For his part, Juan Castillo, experienced “a special feeling when seeing and being able to enjoy a live event. Generally, one does not always have the option of being in the city and being able to attend these types of activities; However, this opportunity was very pleasant and gave me a very pleasant moment. I was pleasantly surprised by the quality of the performers and I will most likely do it again soon because I want to continue attending these types of concerts and learn from this style of music, which I do not have much knowledge of,” he stated.

The realization of these presentations responds to the 2018 season and its program called 'The Symphony of Cultures', which is carried out thanks to the Ministry of Cultures, Arts and Heritage from which it receives part of its financing from Glosa of the National Budget since 2016; in addition to the support provided by the University of La Serena, the Illustrious Municipality of La Serena, through its Department of Culture and the Municipal Theater, and the collaboration granted on this occasion by the Municipality of Vicuña, through the Department of Community Organizations and the office for people with disabilities.

These days, the professional ensemble is preparing its third official seasonal concert inspired by Germany 'Deutsche Tradition', scheduled for Friday, May 25, at 20:00 p.m., at the Municipal Theater of La Serena. Those who wish to enjoy this musical event can collect their tickets, during the week of the concert, at the La Serena Public Library (Colón #495, corner Balmaceda) and/or at the Gabriela Mistral Regional Library (Juan José Latorre #782) . While school students and those of the University of La Serena can go to the extension office of the ULS Music Department (Larraín Alcalde s/n, between Los Jardines and Seminario). Those who are unable to withdraw their invitation will only be able to purchase tickets at the municipal ticket office on the day of the event, with prices ranging between $3.000 for the general public and $2.000 for seniors. School students and students from the University of La Serena must present their credentials.

Source: Press Symphony Orchestra University of La Serena