The absolute centerpiece of tonight’s program is Las Furias, a gripping new work by Carlos Michans.Performed by Trio Abril, this compelling piece explores the many faces of temptation, menace, and explosive energy. Around this central masterpiece, the trio showcases its extraordinary versatility, framing Michans’ work with a rich palette of sounds—from the romantic lyricism of Mikhail Glinka to the sharp rhythms of Santiago Baez and Jun Nagao.

The concert opens with Mikhail Glinka’s expressive Trio Pathétique, a lyrical work full of virtuosity performed in the unique configuration of a saxophone-piano trio. Next, the focus shifts to two contemporary works: the playful yet melancholy Arkenciel V by Santiago Baez, and Jun Nagao’s Paganini Lost—a virtuosic, imaginative piece that nods to the legendary violinist Paganini.

Following the intermission, the program features Claude Debussy’s impressionistic Rhapsodie, setting the stage for the highly anticipated Las Furias by Carlos Michans. This powerful composition captures shifting emotional landscapes, blending intense tensions with seductive melodies. The concert concludes with Francis Poulenc’s sparkling Trio, where elegance, humor, and refinement come together.

Trio Abril consists of saxophonists Juani Palop and Arno Bornkamp, together with pianist Frank van de Laar. The ensemble is renowned for its versatile repertoire, spanning from classical-romantic works to contemporary compositions, with a strong dedication to championing powerful new music like that of Carlos Michans.

Program:

• Mikhail Glinka (1804–1857) – Trio Pathétique (1832)
  Arranged for soprano saxophone, baritone saxophone, and piano
• Santiago Baez (1982) – Arkenciel V (2023)
  For soprano saxophone, baritone saxophone, and piano
• Jun Nagao (1964) – Paganini Lost (2009)
  For two alto saxophones and piano

Intermission

• Claude Debussy (1862–1918) – Rhapsodie (1903)
  Arranged for soprano/tenor saxophone, alto saxophone, and piano (by Alberto Tarraga)
• Carlos Michans (1951) – Las Furias (2024)
  For soprano saxophone, alto saxophone, and piano
• Francis Poulenc (1899–1963) – Trio (1926)
  Arranged for soprano saxophone, baritone saxophone, and piano