Benet Casablancas: Seven Haikus

On December 13, 2025, clarinetist Joan Enric Lluna and pianist Josep Colom are scheduled to perform at L’Auditori de Barcelona, presenting a program that highlights both contemporary and classical compositions. A focal point of the evening is the world premiere of “Set Haikus per a clarinet” (2025) by Catalan composer Benet Casablancas. This piece, consisting of seven concise movements, is expected to showcase the clarinet’s expressive range and technical capabilities.

The concert will also feature other works by Casablancas, including “Epigramas cervantinos” for piano (2016) and “Poem” for clarinet and piano (2000). These compositions reflect Casablancas’ engagement with literary themes and his exploration of the interplay between instruments. Additionally, the program includes original pieces by the performers: Colom’s “Peça per a clarinet i piano” and “Sempre Bach,” as well as Lluna’s “Homenatge a Rodrigo” (2019), a tribute to composer Joaquín Rodrigo.

The evening will conclude with Johannes Brahms’ Clarinet Sonata No. 2 in E-flat Major, Op. 120 (1894). This sonata, composed in the later years of Brahms’ life, is noted for its lyrical qualities and the intimate dialogue between the clarinet and piano. The inclusion of this work provides a contrast to the contemporary pieces, offering the audience a comprehensive musical experience.

This concert not only premieres a new work by Benet Casablancas but also highlights the collaborative efforts of Lluna and Colom in promoting contemporary Catalan music alongside classical repertoire. Their performance is anticipated to contribute to the ongoing dialogue between modern compositions and established masterpieces, enriching the cultural landscape of Barcelona’s music scene.

Program:

Benet Casablancas: Seven Haikus for Clarinet solo (2025) 8′ world premiere
Benet Casablancas: In memoriam Gemma Romanyà (Aphorism nº 4) for piano (2018)’ (2016) 4:30’
Benet Casablancas: Poem for clarinet and piano (2000) 9’
Josep Colom: Peça per clarinet i piano 4’
Josep Colom: Sempre Bach 3’
Joan Enric Lluna: Homenatge a Rodrigo (2019) 7’
Enric Granados / Albert Guinovart: Fantasía sobre Goyescas (2001) 14’
Johannes Brahms: Clarinet Sonata No. 2 in E-flat Major, Op. 120 (1894) 22′