Northern Lights Piano Concert Series: In the Circle of Manuel de Falla

The 2026–2027 Northern Lights Piano Concert Series features UNW piano faculty, alumni, and guest artists in an exploration of Spanish and Spain-influenced piano music from the late 19th century through the present day. Through works of Manuel de Falla, Albéniz, Granados, Turina, Mompou, Montsalvatge, and others, audiences will be able to hear how composers used folk materials, Spanish dance rhythms, modal harmonies, guitar-like textures, and vivid piano colors to develop Spanish classical music across generations, and how they brought together Spanish folk traditions, Andalusian dance, flamenco-inspired rhythms, French impressionistic color, and 20th-century concert music to create a distinct voice within the Western classical tradition.

This third concert of the series looks beyond Falla to the modern echoes of his musical world. Featuring composers from Spain and Latin America, the program highlights rhythmic energy, lyrical intimacy, and bold color through works by Ginastera, Montsalvatge, Mompou, García Abril, and Piazzolla. With Falla’s Ritual Fire Dance at its center, the concert connects Spanish modernism with later voices, creating a vivid journey from folk-inspired fire to atmospheric reflection and tango-infused brilliance.

The three performances of this series are October 23, 2026; January 22, 2027; and April 23, 2027.