The opening ceremonies for Olympics on Friday in Rio will feature “a 6,000-person squad of performers, including the popular Brazilian musicians Anitta, Caetano Veloso and Gilberto Gil,” writes Amanda Angel on Monday (8/1) at New York classical radio station WQXR. “We’re hoping that a few of the country’s classical figures will make cameos [including] São Paulo Symphony Orchestra … founded in 1954 in Brazil’s largest city [and] now considered the country’s most esteemed orchestra … currently led by music director Marin Alsop…. Brazilian Symphony Orchestra … Rio’s resident philharmonic is the likeliest classical music ensemble to get an invitation to the opening ceremonies, if only for convenience’s sake. Headed by Roberto Minczuk, who was born in São Paulo…. Minas Gerais Philharmonic Orchestra … founded in 2008 under the direction of Brazilian conductor Fabio Mechetti (who has served as music director of the Jacksonville and Syracuse symphonies)…. In addition to presenting standard repertory, the orchestra promotes music by Brazilian composers and offers concerts at low cost or for free around the state of Minas Gerais.” Also on the list are Brazilian conductor Isaac Karabtchevsky, pianist Nelson Freire, and baritone Paulo Szot.
Posted August 4, 2016
Pictured: Orquestra Sinfônica Brasileira.
