'One of the most promising young artists in the genre of the classical guitar in America.'

Fundación Nacional para la Cultura Popular

​

Hermelindo Ruiz, one of Puerto Rico's finest classical guitar players, makes his UK debut at Echoes Festival 2023 showcasing the rich classical  heritage of his homeland, with its compelling blend of Spanish and African influences. Juxtaposing tradition and innovation, this programme explores three centuries of rarely-performed Puerto-Rican composers and the Danzas Puertorriqueñas of Ángel Mislán, Juan F. Acosta, José Ignacio Quintón and Manuel Tavárez, alongside works by Ernesto Cordero and pieces penned by Ruiz himself. Ruiz also presents the world premiere of a work written especially for him: the 'Romanza' by Spanish composer, José Antonio Tolosa.

 

Miguel Cubano Fragmentos, sobre una plena de Canario

Manuel Gregorio Tavárez (Arr. Leonardo Egúrbida) Margarita
Ángel Mislán Sara
Juan F. Acosta Bajo la sombra de un pino
José Ignacio Quintón (Arr. Juan Sorroche) El coquí

Hermelindo Ruiz Flores, café y tu sonrisa | Macaracachimba | Three Sketches

Ernesto Cordero La catedral de Taxco

José Antonio Tolosa Tríptico para guitarra, Op. 22: 'Romanza' (world premiere)

​

Hermelindo Ruiz guitar

​

Hermelindo Ruiz is a 35-year-old guitarist and composer, with over 70 works and arrangements for musical ensembles, video productions, and three music CD publications. As a guitarist, he has championed the tradition of the Danza Puertorriqueña playing this musical genre in solo recitals in 16 countries. His unusual influences of Caribbean, classical, jazz, and pop culture have allowed him to perform in a wide array of venues, from small Latino theatres across America, Europe, and Australia, to collaborations with iconic music organisations, such as The Cleveland Orchestra, Chicago Lyric Opera Orchestra, and the Buffalo Philharmonic. Ruiz holds a Master’s degree in Music from Yale University and a Doctoral Degree from the University of Kentucky. He has given academic lectures and masterclasses in 10 countries and is a published author of 4 books of music scores. Hermelindo was awarded the biggest music distinction in his country, from the Instituto de Cultura Puertorriqueña in 2023.

​

PLUS Join us after the concert for a complimentary wine reception

​

Organised by the Iberian & Latin American Music Society (ILAMS) as part of Echoes Festival 2023 in collaboration with the Instituto Cervantes, with the support of Pixaudio