Black Composer Series, Vol. 4: Roque Cordero

Immerse yourself in the captivating compositions of Roque Cordero with the release of "Black Composer Series, Vol. 4: Roque Cordero." This album, remastered and released on January 4, 2019, under Sony Classical, showcases the brilliance of Panamanian composer Roque Cordero, the sole featured composer on this volume. The album spans a concise yet impactful 44 minutes, divided into two main works: the "Concerto for Violin and Orchestra" and "Eight Miniatures for Small Orchestra."

The concerto, a three-movement piece, begins with a dramatic "Largo - Allegro strepitoso - Allegro moderato," followed by a contemplative "Lento," and concludes with an energetic "Allegro vigoroso." The "Eight Miniatures" offer a diverse range of moods and styles, from the playful "Marcha Grotesca" and the rhythmic "Danzonete" to the serene "Nocturno" and the spirited "Allegro Final."

Performed by the Detroit Symphony Orchestra under the direction of Paul Freeman, with Sanford Allen on violin, this album is a testament to Cordero's unique voice in classical music. Born in Panama, Cordero's work stands out in the Black Composer Series, which spans compositions from 1745 to 1979. Whether you're a longtime fan of classical music or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers a compelling exploration of Cordero's distinctive musical language.