600 people are impatiently waiting for ‘Meritxell, the patroness’.
During rehearsals, we are 8 musicians and a hundred dancers. I have realized the scale of this unique project and how music and dance are great resources to create community and unite people.
What is it about this show that makes it special?
Classical, modern, electronic and folk music coexist in a single work integrating the accordion, the drums, a bass, a cello and an unusual and old instrument such as the viola de roda.
More dancing!
For the first time, the five dancing esbartas of Andorra will unite, and this is a historic event, beyond the same celebration of the 50th anniversary of the sanctuary.
And all directed by Albert Gumí.
A teacher! He has been commissioner of the ONCA for years and is a great director. In addition to directing us, he has composed the music together with Bernat Torra and Lluís Cartes.
What does the accordion bring?
It acts as a pillow with harmony, uniting the classical part with the contemporary. Being tied to tradition and dance, it is the perfect bridge between these worlds.
We associate the accordion with folklore, but it plays more and more roles.
Being a new instrument, from 1826, it had a more popular character. I always say that we are the bridge generation, we come from traditional music, but we have been able to study and take the accordion to other spheres. There are composers who are already betting on him.
For example?
Sofiya Gubaidúlina, great composer who applies contemporary music resources.
Why the accordion?
As a child I was shy, it was difficult for me to speak. My parents suggested I play the accordion and I liked it. As an adult I have reflected and realized that for me it meant the possibility of expressing myself without words. Music has been like therapy for me. And what’s more, the accordion allows you to make a complete work, the harmony in the left hand and the melody in the right.
What remains of that shy girl?
I must confess that I am still shy and music is a refuge. So much so that I wanted to share it. I have been trained in music therapy and I do it for the elderly, those affected by Alzheimer’s or the mentally ill. I have lived magical moments.
Give me one.
I remember a grandmother who spoke very little. Hearing a melody from his youth on the accordion, he began to sing and dialogue with his daughter for a few unforgettable minutes.
