Loja: Ecuador's music capital

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In Ecuador, Loja is known as the Musical capital of Ecuador. There is a thriving musical scene here in Loja, and I don’t know if we just came at the right time, but it seems as though there is always some concert or other going on somewhere in the city.

A percussion ensemble at Teatro Alfredo Moras Reyes in Loja, most of these musicians are part of the Loja Symphony Orchestra

This week we enjoyed a Choral concert on Monday night at the Central Cathedral, on Tuesday there was a Folklore presentation (we got rained out that night, and did not see it) Wednesday we checked out the Loja Symphony Orchestra, Thursday there was an electronic music presentation at Plaza San Sebastián, and Friday the symphony was presenting a number of pieces by their various chamber groups….the coolest part, it was all free!
Monday’s choral concert took place in the Central Cathedral. They performed a few classical pieces, but the two pieces that really touched my heart were Chabuca Granda's "La flor de la Canela", a piece that is just so very Peruvian, and "El Alma Llanera" from Venezuela. I remember both of these songs from my childhood, love, love these pieces.

Loja's Municipal Choir

The kids both said their favourite was the Symphony Orchestra. I loved watching the conductor, it was like he was conducting with his whole body. They had beautiful instruments, after chatting with Wyatt we both realized that neither of us has even seen/heard the CPO….maybe that can be a future bucket list item.

The Loja Symphonic Orchestra

 Also, you know what?  I know nothing about electronic music….can someone enlighten me? the DJs in Plaza San Sebastián were doing something while playing their various tunes, what do DJs do? I learned they participate in competitions even, how are they judged?....yet another thing to learn a little about, eh?
Electronic music presentation at Plaza San Sebastian

 Before coming on this trip I had never even heard of Loja, Ecuador, now I freaking LOVE this place! Can’t wait to tell you more about it. Stay tuned friends! So much culture, so much music! March is Jazz month in Loja, with a tribute to Queen thrown in there...

Comments

  1. P. A. S.March 13, 2019 at 5:29 AM

    You should talk to Nano and Mum about the DJ questions. That is totally up their alley.

    Also, can't wait to hear about the Queen tribute! And... CPO? Really? You're missing out!!

    ReplyDelete

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