Minn. Orchestra To Perform 2 Concerts In Cuba

MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) -- The Minnesota Orchestra will be the first U.S. orchestra to perform in Cuba since the recent push to reestablish diplomatic relations, the orchestra announced Thursday.

Music Director Osmo Vänskä and the orchestra will perform Beethoven's Choral Fantasy with the Cuban National Choir and pianist Frank Fernandez in the 19th annual International Cubadisco Festival.

"Eighty-five years ago, the Minnesota Orchestra, then called the Minneapolis Symphony, performed Beethoven's music for Cuban audiences. It is a thrill and privilege for us to do the same so many decades later," Vänskä said. "So much has transpired, so much has changed in the world since then. What has remained constant is the power of this music to affect and build bonds between audiences and performers."

The performances will be held Friday, May 15 and Saturday May 16 at the Teaetro Nacional, which is one of Cuba's largest theaters.