Four Decades of Music; One Final Tour

Grass Valley, CA:  After more than 40 years of global acclaim, Cuarteto Latinoamericano brings their retirement tour to Grass Valley, CA on Sunday, November 16 at 2pm.

Cuarteto Latinoamericano is one of the most celebrated string quartets in the Western Hemisphere and the foremost ensemble in Latin American chamber music.

This farewell tour marks the end of an extraordinary 43-year journey that has left a lasting legacy on the world of classical music. The ensemble—Saúl Bitrán and Arón Bitrán on violins, Álvaro Bitrán on cello, and Javier Montiel on viola—has achieved what few quartets ever do by performing together with the original lineup, including three brothers, for over four decades.

Their vibrant program, called “Latin American Miniatures,” spans countries and styles, from the romantic charm of Manuel Ponce’s “Estrellita” and “Gavota” to the intensity of Alejandro Cardona’s “Echú,” the colorful exuberance of Gabriela Ortiz’s “La Calaca,” and the dynamic tangos of Astor Piazzolla “Four for Tango” and “Libertango.” The entire program highlights the ensemble’s trademark combination of classical precision, expressive range, and emotional power.

Founded in Mexico City in 1982, the Cuarteto has premiered more than 100 works written especially for them and recorded an extensive catalog of critically acclaimed albums. They have earned two Latin Grammy Awards for Best Classical Album, the Mexican Music Critics Association Award, and three “Most Adventurous Programming” Awards from Chamber Music America/ASCAP. The ensemble has defined a sound that is both deeply rooted in classical traditionand unmistakably of their culture being vibrant, warm, and expressive.

“I’ve long hoped to present them, and with their upcoming retirement, this will be my final chance. I feel truly fortunate to share this extraordinary experience with our community,” said Ken Hardin, ICS artistic director.

There will be a 1:15 pre-concert forum prior to the 2pm concert to enrich the concert experience and give attendees an inside look at the music and composers, with performer insights and a chance to ask questions.

Since 1946, InConcert Sierra has brought world-class classical music to the Sierra Nevada region. The organization offers educational programs, outreach, and collaborations to inspire a love of classical music. ICS is currently building Crown Point Venues, featuring a new acoustic concert hall, conference center, and black box theater.