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Grant Park Today
By the People, for the People
Composer Elbio Barilari Hosts 'Island Hopping' Musical Tour
Radio program takes listeners on a journey through Latin America and Spain
Apr. 6, 2026 at 1:00am
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Composer, musician, and professor Elbio Rodríguez Barilari is hosting a new radio program called 'Island Hopping' that takes listeners on a musical tour of various islands in Latin America and Spain, including the Canary Islands, Puerto Rico, Mexico, and Cuba.
Why it matters
As a longtime faculty member at the University of Illinois at Chicago and a composer with an extensive background in Latin American music, Barilari is uniquely positioned to guide listeners through the diverse musical traditions of these island regions.
The details
The 'Island Hopping' program will feature Barilari sharing his expertise and passion for the music of these island cultures, highlighting both traditional and contemporary compositions. The show is sponsored by WFMT, a classical music radio station, and is part of their ongoing efforts to expose listeners to a wide range of global musical influences.
- The 'Island Hopping' program premiered on April 6, 2026.
The players
Elbio Rodríguez Barilari
A composer, musician, and professor who was born in Montevideo, Uruguay and is currently on the faculty at the University of Illinois at Chicago.
WFMT
A classical music radio station that is sponsoring the 'Island Hopping' program as part of their efforts to expose listeners to diverse global musical traditions.
What they’re saying
“As a composer with deep roots in Latin American music, I'm excited to take listeners on this musical journey through some of the most vibrant and influential island cultures in the region.”
— Elbio Rodríguez Barilari, Host, 'Island Hopping'
What’s next
The 'Island Hopping' program will air weekly on WFMT, exploring the musical traditions of a new island destination each episode.
The takeaway
The 'Island Hopping' program provides a unique opportunity for listeners to discover the rich and diverse musical heritage of Latin America and Spain through the expert guidance of composer Elbio Rodríguez Barilari.


