¡Olé! A Salute to Spain – Hoff-Barthelson Music School Youth Orchestra Concert
The sound of Spain will fill the concert hall when Hoff-Barthelson Music School’s Youth Orchestras present ¡Olé! A Salute to Spain on Saturday, March 21, 2026, at 7:00 pm at Rye Country Day School, 3 Cedar Street, Rye, NY. The festive program celebrates the color, passion, and rhythmic vitality of Spanish-inspired music while showcasing the artistry of the School’s talented young musicians.
The concert will feature performances by the Young People’s Symphonette and Chamber Orchestra, conducted by Robert Schwartz, and the Festival Orchestra, conducted by Dr. Leandro Gazineo, Hoff-Barthelson’s Director of Orchestral Programs.
Designed as a vibrant musical journey, the program honors the 150th anniversary of the birth of Spanish composer Manuel de Falla, whose music played a central role in shaping Spain’s national musical identity. The evening will feature works by Manuel de Falla, Enrique Granados, Pablo de Sarasate, and Georges Bizet, alongside music by J.S. Bach, W.A. Mozart, Dmitri Shostakovich, Antonio Vivaldi, and others.
“Our March concert program is designed as a celebration of Spain’s rich musical heritage,” said Dr. Leandro Gazineo. “The music we have chosen captures a remarkable range of expression—from lyric elegance to fiery rhythmic energy. It allows our students to explore the distinctive colors and character of Spanish-inspired repertoire while developing the musical depth and ensemble skills that orchestral playing demands.”
Among the highlights of the evening are two iconic works by Manuel de Falla—Ritual Fire Dance from El Amor Brujo and Spanish Dance from La Vida Breve. These pieces, filled with dramatic flair and unmistakable Andalusian rhythms, helped establish de Falla as one of the most important composers of 20th-century Spain.
The program also includes the dazzling Introduction et Tarentelle by Spanish violin virtuoso Pablo de Sarasate, a work known for its brilliant technical demands and unmistakable Spanish character, as well as the famous Les Toréadors from Georges Bizet’s opera Carmen, music that vividly evokes the spectacle and excitement often associated with Spain.
A special highlight of the concert will be performances by two exceptional young soloists—pianist Nicky Vurchio and violinist Melody Dong—who were named winners of the Second Hoff-Barthelson Concerto Competition. Vurchio will perform Joseph Haydn’s Piano Concerto in D Major, Hob. XVIII:11, while Dong will perform Introduction et Tarentelle, Op. 43 by Pablo de Sarasate.
“These concerto performances represent an important milestone in the musical journeys of these young artists,” said Gabriella Sanna, Executive Director of Hoff-Barthelson Music School. “At Hoff-Barthelson, we are committed to creating opportunities where students can challenge themselves artistically and share their achievements with the community. Nicky and Melody exemplify the dedication and talent that thrive within our Youth Orchestra program.”
General Admission is $15. Tickets can be purchased via Eventbrite.
For more details, visit www.hbms.org.
About Hoff-Barthelson Music School
Founded in 1944, Hoff-Barthelson Music School is one of the nation’s premier community music schools and a leader in music education for students of all ages, levels, and backgrounds. Located in Scarsdale, NY, the School is renowned for its exceptional faculty, comprehensive curriculum, and nurturing environment that fosters both artistic and personal growth. Guided by its mission to inspire excellence and welcome all, Hoff-Barthelson offers individualized instruction, ensemble experiences, and performance opportunities that cultivate a lifelong love and understanding of music.
