Carmen Linares to Inaugurate ClàssicAnd with Symphonic El amor brujo

Carmen Linares will inaugurate the ClàssicAnd festival this Saturday in Ordino, performing a symphonic version of Manuel de Falla's *El amor brujo* at the newly opened Auditori de la Vall d'Ordino. The event marks the 150th anniversary of the composer's birth and features the Orquestra Nacional del Camp d'Andorra (ONCA) in its first appearance under new leadership following the departure of its previous director, Gumí. Catalan conductor Josep Caballé Domènech will lead the orchestra.

The acclaimed flamenco singer expressed excitement about debuting in Andorra at this prestigious festival. "To die without having heard *El amor brujo* might not be a sin, but it is certainly a great shame," she told *Bon Dia*, emphasising the work's status among essential pieces. Falla, whom she described as one of the 20th century's great universal composers, drew direct inspiration from flamenco for the ballet, originally written for singer Pastora Imperio.

Linares, who has portrayed the lead character Candelas for over three decades, noted how her approach has evolved with experience. While her vocal tone remains consistent, years of performing with various conductors have brought greater security and freedom to explore nuances, always respecting the orchestral timing. "The merit belongs to Falla," she said. "It is a masterpiece, and with such strong material, it is easy to give your best."

She highlighted a shift in performance practice since her 1988 revival of the original *Gitanería en un acto y dos cuadros* version in Seville, which encouraged directors to favour flamenco cantaoras over operatic singers. Younger artists now follow suit, benefiting from these precedents.

Ahead of a single rehearsal, Linares praised Caballé's talent and the ONCA's quality, confident they will blend seamlessly. She urged aspiring performers to approach the role with respect but without fear, memorising the score—a necessity for flamenco artists unused to reading music—and to savour the rare chance to sing with a full symphony orchestra.

The 50-year veteran stressed that stage performances remain transformative, never routine, requiring emotional connection with audiences. Her appearance follows Miguel Poveda's at last year's festival, underscoring flamenco's growing presence in ClàssicAnd as an open, universal art form that enriches the programme.