“The concert version of Sonetos de Amor Oscuro brings the album’s lush, chamber music-inspired sound to life with a trio of cellists. This ensemble was conceived as a way to reimagine the rich textures of the original album, creating a dynamic musical landscape that highlights the cello’s extraordinary versatility.

For me, the cello trio symbolizes the Three Fates or the Three Muses—a timeless image of a perfect triangle, resonating with balance and unity. This vision captivated my imagination, making the trio the ideal format for performing these deeply intimate works by Lorca.

The cello, as an instrument, is profoundly multifaceted. It can serve as a drum, a guitar, a rhythmic backbone, a melodic voice—it can even sing. Its versatility allows it to embody the complex emotions and layered narratives within Lorca’s Sonetos. As a cellist, this project became an opportunity to celebrate the instrument’s potential while stretching the boundaries of my own work.

The poetry behind this music carries immense significance. Lorca’s Sonetos de Amor Oscuro were not published until the 1980s, decades after his death. These poems, written during a time of immense personal and societal repression, were never intended to see the light of day. They express a deeply personal, raw longing for forbidden same-sex love—an extraordinary gift to both the literary world and the queer community. In these sonnets, Lorca captures the complexity of love, identity, and desire, giving voice to emotions that were silenced in his lifetime.

For our Journey Arts performances at Bartram’s Gardens, I’m thrilled to celebrate both Pride Month and the birthday of the incomparable Federico García Lorca, born on June 5th. After Lorca has enchanted and haunted us with his breathtaking words and profound thoughts, we’ll honor his legacy with a joyful twist—sharing a delicious birthday cake together. It’s a fitting way to toast his enduring spirit and the beauty of his work, blending reflection with celebration. ”