Tomatito records his version of ‘Concierto de Aranjuez’
The Zarzuela Theater will host Tomatito in style, together with his inseparable guitar, for the recording of the mythical ‘Concierto de Aranjuez’ of maestro Rodrigo, celebrating 80th years since the publishing of this work
José Fernández Torres, better known as Tomatito, took his flamenco guitar and from the center of the stage outpoured his talent to perform the famous Concierto de Aranjuez at Madrid’s Zarzuela Theater under the attentive look and collaboration of the Madrid Community Orchestra (ORCAM), led by maestro Víctor Pablo Pérez. It was a magic evening, on July 12th, 2019, which will remain etched in the memory of those who were able to enjoy it.
Such a genuine performance could not be allowed to fade into oblivion. That’s why Universal Music has decided to edit a CD with the recording of that fantastic concert. It’s quite a tribute to Joaquín Rodrigo, who died twenty years ago, and whose composition, created in the spring of 1939, celebrates its 80th anniversary.
«The orchestra adds a delicious touch, transparent but bright, sparking constantly»
«Tomatito is faced with what is, without a doubt, his greatest artistic challenge since he left the Pescadería neighborhood in Almería: the recording of Concierto de Aranjuez», states the press release of the record company. It’s a recording which allow us to appreciate Tomatito’s most classical aspect, not only true to the score, but also true to the spirit of this work, without forgetting its origins, its flamenco roots which, without any doubt, is one of the references of Concierto de Aranjuez.
«At all times, the guitarist is a soloist, but the orchestra adds a delicious touch, transparent but bright, sparking constantly», commented maestro Rodrigo in one of his statements. The guitar faces a great orchestra formed by piccolo, flute, oboe, English horn, two clarinets, two bassoons, two French horns, two trumpets and a quartet.
Tomatito achieved international success accompanying the unique voice of Camarón de la Isla and other great flamenco legends such as Enrique Morente, José Menese, Pansequito and, more recently, José Mercé. Yet, he has re-invented himself as a soloist, revealing a vital need to find new musical experiences, new challenges
Tomatito has won a total of six Latin Grammy awards in three different categories (Flamenco, Jazz and Classical Music). Tackling face-to-face Rodrigo’s Concierto de Aranjuez, arguably the peak of all guitar compositions, now adds to his spotless career.
