Cuenca Symphony Orchestra to Premiere Elgar Violin Concerto with Ecuadorian Virtuoso Jacob Ormaza
CUENCA, AZUAY – July 24, 2025 – Cuenca's vibrant cultural scene is set to offer a unique treat this Friday evening. The University of Cuenca Symphony Orchestra (OSUC) will close its first 2025 season with a highly anticipated performance, featuring the premiere of Edward Elgar's monumental Violin Concerto in B minor, Op. 61. This is a rare opportunity to hear a work not frequently performed on local stages, promising an enriching experience for classical music aficionados, including Cuenca's expat community.
The concert is scheduled for Friday, July 25, 2025, at 8:00 PM, at the prestigious Teatro Carlos Cueva Tamariz. In an excellent gesture of cultural accessibility, admission to this performance is free. This accessibility not only allows a broader audience to enjoy high-quality classical music but also provides a wonderful opportunity for expats to immerse themselves in Cuenca's rich artistic offerings without financial barrier. It's an ideal way to experience the city's commitment to cultural development firsthand.
Adding to the prestige of the evening, the OSUC will welcome Ecuadorian violinist Jacob Ormaza as the guest soloist. Currently based in Cologne, Germany, Ormaza is a rising star in the classical music world, holding a position in the first violin section of the WDR Symphony Orchestra of Cologne. His impressive resume includes concerts and recitals across the Netherlands, Italy, Lithuania, Germany, and Ecuador, alongside appearances with renowned ensembles such as the Munich Symphony Orchestra, Cologne Chamber Orchestra, and the Düsseldorf Symphony Orchestra. During his visit to Cuenca, Ormaza also shared his expertise by leading a specialized course at the University of Cuenca's Faculty of Arts, further enriching the local musical landscape.
William Vergara, the orchestra's director, highlighted that the choice of Elgar's Violin Concerto for this performance aligns with the orchestra's commitment to public education and audience development. The piece, composed in 1910, represents a distinct sound rarely heard in Cuenca, offering attendees an "approach to the aesthetic changes that were beginning to shape 20th-century music, moving away from previous structures and giving way to new expressive forms," as explained to El Mercurio. With 74 musicians on stage, the OSUC’s annual programming is meticulously crafted based on academic criteria and an active dialogue with the audience, incorporating their suggestions and interests. This strong connection between artistic development, education, and community engagement is seen as a vital part of Cuenca’s overall cultural growth, fostering a dynamic environment where "artists generate proposals that invite the citizenry to approach. Thus, the city is culturally energized." Vergara also stressed that culture extends beyond mere entertainment, forming an integral part of a broader social framework where institutions and groups play crucial roles. This concert is a prime example of Cuenca's dedication to fostering a sophisticated and engaging cultural environment that benefits all its residents. The University of Cuenca Symphony Orchestra's second season is anticipated to commence in September.
Source: El Mercurio
Javier V
10-year immigrant in Cuenca, Ecuador
Member of multiple local business circles and communities, including many English-speaking expat groups
Unlock More Essential Expat Insights
Don't navigate the exciting, yet often complex, world of expat life in Cuenca alone. Our newsletter is your direct line to even more powerful insights on the specific pain points we've discussed, offering practical solutions and strategies gleaned from years of on-the-ground experience.
Beyond advice, we'll also share trusted recommendations for service providers – from reliable facilitators and legal experts to property managers and community groups – who consistently go the extra mile to support expats like you. Think of it as your curated list of allies dedicated to your successful transition and long-term happiness in Ecuador.
Ready for More?
Subscribe to our newsletter today and empower your Cuenca experience with the knowledge and connections you need to thrive.
