Albert Gumí Leads Andorran New Year's Concert with Paris-Vienna Theme

Albert Gumí will once again lead the Andorran ensemble for the traditional New Year's Concert on Thursday at 7pm, themed "Paris-Vienna" and hosted at the Andorra la Vella Congress Centre due to ongoing renovations at the National Auditorium.

The programme offers a musical journey between two key 19th-century creative hubs, Paris and Vienna, whose influences shaped that era's repertoire. The French segment features works by Georges Bizet, Camille Saint-Saëns, and Léo Delibes, while the Austrian side includes pieces by Franz von Suppé and, inevitably, the Strauss family.

Gumí explained his approach to programming: he tailors selections to the event's nature and audience. "The New Year's Concert has very special characteristics—it's not meant to break new ground," he said. To avoid predictability, the ensemble maintains a traditional core while introducing fresh elements. This year, French music provides the distinguishing touch, bringing a distinct light and refinement that contrasts with waltzes and polkas, ultimately enriching the lineup.

Audience familiarity enhances the experience, Gumí noted. When listeners recognise pieces tied to their emotional memories, it becomes more than listening—it's a reconnection with lived moments.

Addressing perceptions of the repertoire as merely "popular," Gumí pushed back: popularity does not equate to lesser quality. He cited the Strauss works as exceptionally well-crafted, capable of evoking positive emotions despite lacking deep philosophical undertones. Esteemed conductors like Herbert von Karajan, Claudio Abbado, and Carlos Kleiber championed such music, recognising its high calibre. "Not everything needs dense compositions; there's room for apparently lighter fare that's masterfully executed," he added.

The shift to the Congress Centre offers advantages, including superior acoustics and greater capacity compared to the National Auditorium. "Every venue has its conditions—you must read them and make the most of them," Gumí said.