Cancionero

Roberto Sierra's "Cancionero" is a captivating journey through a rich tapestry of musical influences and styles, released on March 1, 2011, under the Fleur de Son label. This chamber music album spans 57 minutes and features 26 tracks, each offering a unique blend of cultural and poetic inspirations.

The album begins with "Cancionero Sefardi," a collection of seven tracks that draw from the Sephardic Jewish musical tradition. These pieces, such as "A la una naci yo" and "Avridme galanica," are performed by a talented ensemble including Judith Kellock, Jeani Muhonen Foster, William Helmers, Lisa Fuller, Scott Tisdel, and Stefanie Jacob. Sierra's compositions beautifully capture the essence of these ancient melodies, infusing them with a contemporary touch.

Following the Sephardic suite, the album transitions into "5 Poemas Aztecas" (5 Aztec Poems), where Sierra interprets ancient Aztec poetry through music. Tracks like "Que es poesia?" and "Poema de la conquista" offer a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the Aztecs, rendered in Sierra's distinctive musical language.

The album continues with "Rimas," a series of five tracks inspired by the poetry of Gustavo Adolfo Bécquer. These pieces, including "Por una mirada" and "Mi vida es un erial," are characterized by their lyrical beauty and emotional depth.

The final section of the album, "Conjuros," features seven tracks that explore Afro-Cuban spiritual chants and rituals. Pieces like "O ya ya Lumba Lumba" and "Iya" showcase Sierra's ability to blend traditional Afro-Cuban rhythms with contemporary classical music.

Throughout "Cancionero," Roberto Sierra demonstrates his mastery of diverse musical styles and his ability to create a cohesive and engaging listening experience. This album is a testament to Sierra's artistic versatility and his deep appreciation for the rich cultural heritage that informs his work. Whether you're a fan of chamber music, world music, or simply appreciate beautiful compositions, "Cancionero" is sure to captivate and inspire.