Imaginary Concert Celebrates Latin American Music

WFMT's new virtual concert features works by renowned composers from Venezuela, Brazil, and Mexico.

Mar. 16, 2026 at 1:00am

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WFMT is hosting an imaginary concert that showcases the rich musical traditions of Latin America. The program features a lively Venezuelan overture by Evencio Castellanos, a colorful Brazilian violin concerto by Cesar Guerra Peixe, and a grand Mexican symphony by Carlos Chávez. The concert is hosted by Elbio Rodríguez Barilari, a Uruguayan composer, musician, and professor who has deep ties to the Latin American music scene.

Why it matters

This virtual concert highlights the diversity and vibrancy of Latin American classical music, which is often overlooked in mainstream classical programming. By featuring works by renowned composers from Venezuela, Brazil, and Mexico, the concert aims to introduce listeners to the region's musical treasures and celebrate its cultural contributions.

The details

The concert program opens with Evencio Castellanos' Venezuelan overture, followed by Cesar Guerra Peixe's Brazilian violin concerto. The performance concludes with Carlos Chávez's grand Mexican symphony. The concert is hosted by Elbio Rodríguez Barilari, a Uruguayan composer, musician, and professor who has dedicated his career to promoting Latin American classical music.

  • The imaginary concert is scheduled to premiere on WFMT on March 16, 2026.

The players

Evencio Castellanos

A Venezuelan composer known for his lively and rhythmic orchestral works that draw inspiration from the country's folk music traditions.

Cesar Guerra Peixe

A Brazilian composer and violinist who is celebrated for his colorful and virtuosic violin concertos that blend classical and Brazilian musical styles.

Carlos Chávez

A renowned Mexican composer whose symphonic works are considered some of the most important contributions to the Latin American classical music canon.

Elbio Rodríguez Barilari

A Uruguayan composer, musician, and professor who has dedicated his career to promoting Latin American classical music through his compositions, performances, and academic work.

WFMT

A classical music radio station based in Chicago that is hosting the imaginary concert as part of its programming to showcase the diversity of Latin American classical music.

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What they’re saying

“This concert is a wonderful opportunity to introduce our listeners to the rich and vibrant classical music traditions of Latin America.”

— Elbio Rodríguez Barilari, Host of the Imaginary Concert

What’s next

The imaginary concert will be available for on-demand streaming on the WFMT website following its initial broadcast.

The takeaway

This virtual concert highlights the diversity and cultural significance of Latin American classical music, which deserves greater recognition and appreciation on the global stage. By featuring works by renowned composers from across the region, the concert aims to introduce listeners to the musical treasures of Latin America and celebrate its enduring contributions to the classical canon.