Ohio Northern University orchestra musicians are diving into spicy Latin rhythms this week alongside one of the world’s most preeminent tuba players, Patricio Cosentino.
On campus as a guest artist, Cosentino is conducting masterclasses with brass players and the orchestra, culminating in a dynamic, family-friendly concert on Sunday, October 18, at 3 p.m. in the Freed Center for the Performing Arts. Tickets are $10 for adults, and $5 for senior citizens and non-ONU students/children, available at the door.
“The concert will have a festive, Mardi Gras kind of vibe, with a lot of percussion and rhythm,” says Dr. Sarah Waters, professor of music and orchestra director. “It’s only an hour long, so it’s perfect for families with small children.”
Cosentino has revolutionized the role of the tuba in the modern musical landscape, and is one of the few tuba players to pursue a full-time solo career. Formerly the principal tubist of the National Symphony Orchestra of Argentina, he is an internationally recognized performer and a passionate advocate for Latin American music.
During his residency at ONU, Cosentino is sharing insights with students on brass technique, Latin music performance, and the realities of forging an international solo career. In addition to working with students, he will perform a solo recital with piano at 3 p.m. on Friday, October 16, in Presser Hall’s Snyder Recital Hall. The recital is free and open to the public.
For Sunday’s showcase concert, Cosentino will be the featured as the guest soloist on two orchestra selections. Adding to the visual spectacle, ONU dancers will join the orchestra for a performance set to “Two South American Tangos.”
“The orchestra has been working very hard preparing for Cosentino’s visit and we’ve been so looking forward to it,” says Waters. “I’ve told the students to be prepared for him to show us ways to make the music sound even spicier.”