The 11th Cycle of Great Concerts begins in Vitoria-Gasteiz. As in previous years, we will have famous and quality names in five sessions, although we can say, watching the program, that this year may be less budget. On the other hand, cycle management has been left to a promoter and differences are observed, such as in much poorer hand programmes.

But let's examine the music. At this stage we have a group specialized in ancient music, Forma Antiqua and one of the best opponents, the Gasteiztarra Carlos Mena. Both the group and the singer enjoy great recognition around the world, and in the recital they offered at the Main Theatre they demonstrated that their fame is deserved. They offered a contrast program. On the one hand, the simplicity of Bach and, on the other, the fresh and lively musicality of Vivaldi and Händel. In this second time we feel more comfortable to the artists, à l’aise’

To begin with, we heard Bach’s Concerto for oboe d’amore. The group of original instruments got a beautiful and balanced sonority. On the other hand, the soloist oboe skillfully projected the small but warm sound of his old instrument. Then we enjoyed the Ich habe genug (I already have enough). Carlos Mena wisely used his special timbre voice, perfectly modulating himself at all times.

In the second part, we delved into another musical world. The Bach Protestant Baroque has nothing to do with the Catholic and carnal Venice of Vivaldi. Concerto grosso 10 de Händel was an appropriate entry for the cantatas and the psalms of Vivaldi. The concert, a dynamic work that resembles a French suite, was accurately interpreted by the team led by Aaron Zapico. But the most beautiful dishes were Vivaldi's works. The Cantata Cessate of this composer, the vitality of the Omai Cessat reached us very well, especially thanks to Mena's fresh form and phrasing. The same applies to Salmo 106 Nisi Dominus. They made a brilliant and balanced version. As a tip, they performed part of the song at the feet of Magdalena Cristo, by Antonio Caldera. Delicious.