![\"Orlando](\"https:\/\/www.send2press.com\/wire\/images\/26-0421-s2p-orlando-cela-800x600.jpg\")
Image caption: Orlando Cela conducting, Music Director of the Lowell Chamber Orchestra. Photo: Noya Photo.<\/em><\/p>\n
This landmark performance marks a significant moment not only for the Arlington Philharmonic community, but also for audiences across the Greater Boston area, who will have a rare opportunity to experience one of Rodrigo\u2019s most expansive and spiritually rich works for chorus and orchestra.<\/p>\n
Composed in 1967, \u201cLa azucena de Quito\u201d tells the story of Saint Mariana de Jes\u00fas of Quito – known as the \u201cLily of Quito\u201d – through Rodrigo\u2019s distinctive musical voice, blending luminous orchestral color with reverent choral writing. Despite Rodrigo\u2019s global fame for works such as the \u201cConcierto de Aranjuez,\u201d this oratorio has seldom been heard, making its U.S. premiere a major cultural event.<\/p>\n
\u201cThis is a deeply moving and profoundly human work,\u201d said Cela. \u201cTo bring \u2018La azucena de Quito’ to American audiences for the first time is both an artistic responsibility and an extraordinary privilege. Rodrigo\u2019s music speaks with a sincerity and spiritual depth that feels especially meaningful today.\u201d<\/p>\n
In a compelling artistic pairing, Cela is also leading the Lowell Chamber Orchestra in a performance of Rodrigo\u2019s beloved \u201cFantas\u00eda para un gentilhombre\u201d – one of the composer\u2019s most celebrated works for guitar and orchestra – on April 26th. The piece, inspired by Spanish Baroque dances, showcases Rodrigo\u2019s gift for lyricism and color, offering a vibrant counterpoint to the introspective grandeur of \u201cLa azucena de Quito.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cProgramming both of these works in close proximity allows audiences to experience the full spectrum of Rodrigo\u2019s artistry,\u201d Cela added. \u201cFrom the intimate elegance of the \u2018Fantas\u00eda\u2019 to the monumental scope of \u2018La azucena,\u2019 it\u2019s a journey through the soul of one of Spain\u2019s most important composers.\u201d<\/p>\n
The Lowell Chamber Orchestra, known for its commitment to accessibility and community engagement, continues to present high-caliber performances with free admission, ensuring that transformative musical experiences remain open to all.<\/p>\n
Together, these performances underscore Cela\u2019s ongoing dedication to bringing both beloved masterworks and overlooked treasures to life\u2014bridging communities in Lowell and Arlington through shared artistic vision.<\/p>\n
EVENT DETAILS:<\/strong> First Parish Unitarian Universalist, 630 Massachusetts Ave, Arlington, MA 02476<\/p>\n For more information, visit: VIDEO (YouTube): https:\/\/youtu.be\/gozbir3V-HM<\/a><\/p>\n
\nU.S. Premiere of \u201cLa azucena de Quito\u201d
\nPhilharmonic Society of Arlington
\nSunday, May 3, 2026, at 4 p.m.<\/p>\n
\nhttps:\/\/psarlington.org\/<\/a><\/p>\n