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Grant Park Today
By the People, for the People
Celebrating Latino Composers in the US
Fiesta program highlights renowned and emerging Latino composers working in the US
Apr. 13, 2026 at 1:00am
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Fiesta radio program celebrates the rich legacy and contemporary brilliance of Latino composers in the United States.Grant Park TodayFiesta, a radio program on WFMT, is shining a spotlight on the rich history and vibrant present of Latino composers in the United States. The program will feature works by renowned composers like Roberto Sierra and Gabriela Lena Frank, as well as talented young Latino artists making their mark on the music scene.
Why it matters
The contributions of Latino composers have long been overlooked, despite their vital role in shaping the musical landscape of the US. This program aims to celebrate and elevate these diverse voices, providing greater visibility and recognition for their artistry.
The details
Fiesta is hosted by Elbio Rodríguez Barilari, a Uruguayan-born composer, musician, and professor who has been based in the US since 1998. Barilari has received commissions from prestigious organizations like the Grant Park Music Festival and has provided scores for over 40 plays in the US and Latin America.
- Fiesta airs on WFMT on April 13, 2026.
The players
Elbio Rodríguez Barilari
The host of Fiesta, Barilari is a Uruguayan-born composer, musician, and professor who has been based in the US since 1998. He has received commissions from organizations like the Grant Park Music Festival and has provided scores for over 40 plays in the US and Latin America.
Roberto Sierra
A renowned Latino composer whose work will be featured on the Fiesta program.
Gabriela Lena Frank
A talented young Latino composer whose work will be featured on the Fiesta program.
What they’re saying
“There is a rich history and a brilliant present of Latino composers in the US.”
— Elbio Rodríguez Barilari, Host, Fiesta
The takeaway
The Fiesta program on WFMT is shining a much-needed spotlight on the vibrant and diverse contributions of Latino composers in the United States, helping to elevate these vital artistic voices and celebrate their important role in shaping the country's musical landscape.
