Cuban Pianist Jose Maria Vitier to Debut in Switzerland

Havana, Oct 15. -Cuban pianist and composer Jose Maria Vitier will offer three concerts for the first time in Switzerland in November, one of them in Solothurn, the most beautiful Baroque city of this European country.In a statement to Prensa Latina, the pianist, 57, said he is very excited, chiefly because his Misa Cubana (Cuban Mass) will be played by musicians of that country. "It will be a nice experience," noted Vitier.

The piece, one of the most famous of his repertoire, has been performed by many international choirs and orchestras, since its premiere in Cuba in December, 1996. Devoted to the Virgin Mary of El Cobre, Patron Saint of the Island, the piece combines the European legacy of the sacred music, the Cuban culture and popular tradition, and African rhythms and instruments. (Prensa Latina)