Pianist Julia Siciliano unveils Basque gems at Harmonia Concert Series

Harmonia Concert Series welcomes award-winning pianist Julia Siciliano in concert on Sunday, Feb. 15, at Faith Community United Church of Christ in Bensenville.

This special program will be drawn from her forthcoming album, “Basque Colorists.” It shines a light on rarely heard gems showcasing the sounds and colors of the Basque Country. Julia fell in love with this enchanting repertoire while spending several years living in the Basque Country, in Donostia-San Sebastian on the Bay of Biscay near the Spain-France border.

Perhaps the best-known composer from the Basque region is the great Maurice Ravel. Siciliano will treat the audience to his exquisite Sonatine, whose swaying rhythms and colorful harmonies are indelibly shaped by his Basque heritage.

Many of the characteristics that make his music so special are also inherent in the selections by lesser-known composers like Jose Maria Usandizaga and Don Pedro Albeniz. You will be treated to some delightful piano works you've most likely never heard before that may even become your new favorites!

The concert will begin at 3 p.m. at the church, 192 S. Center St. There will be a free-will offering. All are welcome. A reception will follow the concert.

Siciliano's album was supported by generous grants from the Basque government and Music Teacher's National Association. Praised for “fabulous creative power” (Bonn General-Anzeiger), Siciliano is a laureate of the Sicily International, Hermanns, Iowa, and MTNA national competitions, with performances across Europe, Asia, and the Americas, including San Sebastian's Teatro Victoria Eugenia where in 2020 she presented the complete Beethoven accompanied sonatas, as well as broadcasts on Chicago’s classical and folk music station, WFMT.

Her first album, “Dream Catchers,” earned accolades from Fanfare and Gramophone for its fine technique, natural musicality and masterful delicacy.