Fiesta | WFMT

Sundays at 8:00 pm

Fiesta! Latin-American Music with Elbio Barilari

Exploring the diverse traditions of Latin American and Iberian music

Devoted to showcasing Latin American and Iberian music from the 16th century to today, Fiesta brings creatively and historically significant compositions and artists to audiences. Acclaimed composer, musician, and professor Elbio Barilari is your guide on this adventure through a rich musical landscape. Enjoy and learn about the lively, compelling, and seldom-heard treasures of Latin American and Spanish classical music from around the world.

Upcoming Episodes
Latest Episodes

Dia de los Muertos – Day of the Dead

November 1, 2026, 8:00 pm

Often confused with Halloween in America, the Day of the Dead is about honoring and paying tribute to ancestors. On this episode of Fiesta, we will delve into music that celebrates the many facets of this holiday.

Music for the Ballet

November 8, 2026, 8:00 pm

Beloved, magical and dramatic Latin American works for dance.

Venezuelan Composer Antonio Estévez

November 15, 2026, 8:00 pm

Antonio Estévez was a Venezuelan composer and conductor. He is the author of the “Cantata Criolla”, the most famous work of the nationalistic Venezuelan music and the most frequently performed composer of his country. We will hear that works as well as some hidden gems of this great composer.

Ildegonda

January 12, 2019

Today a footnote in a history full, mostly, of Italian, German and French names, there were Latin American composers considered mega-stars in the opera houses of the 19th century. Mexican Melesio Morales reached the height of his fame with his masterful opera Ildegonda.

Great Latino Virtuosi

January 5, 2019

Host, Elbio Barilari shares some of the great Latin American music in the hands, lips, and throats of some of the most gifted Latino interpreters.

Camerata de las Américas

December 29, 2018

One of the leading chamber ensembles dedicated to music written in the Americas, Camerata de las Américas, is the focus for this program.

Latin American Christmas Carols

December 22, 2018

A selection of villancicos or Christmas carols from Spain and Latin America are featured on this Christmas themed program from Fiesta. Join us for music that spans several centuries and a great diversity of influences and traditions.

Fiesta Goes to the Movies

December 15, 2018

During the golden age of Hollywood, countries like Mexico, Brazil and Argentina also developed their own healthy movie industries. Smaller nations also contributed to a robust catalog of Latin American movies. Almost every important Latin American composer from the last hundred years has been asked to compose film music, from Heitor Villa-Lobos in Brazil, to Silvestre Revueltas in Mexico, to ...

Latin American Classics

December 8, 2018

The music of Latino composers has made its way into the standard repertoire of music halls across the globe. Host Elbio Barilari shares some of the most known compositions as well as some that he thinks will become classics! Join us for this look into the past and the future of Latino classical music.

Spanish Baroque

December 1, 2018

In Spain, during the Baroque period there were many significant but often forgotten composers. Fiesta shares some of the treasures of the Spanish Baroque including music by Antonio Literes, José de Torres, and Gaspar Sanz.

Latino Salon

November 24, 2018

Popular in Europe in the 19th century, salon music made its way over to Latin America. Embraced by many composers and performers this style of music took on a new life across the ocean. Featured on this program is music from Venezuela, Cuba, Mexico, and Brazil.

Great Guitarists and Composers from Latin America

November 17, 2018

Some of the greatest performers and composers of the guitar have come from Latin America. In this program host, Elbio Barilari share some of his favorite pieces for this versatile instrument and some of the most important works for classical guitar.

Music for El Día de los Muertos

November 10, 2018

El Dia de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, has inspired much music in Latin American culture.

Chamber Music from Latin America

November 3, 2018

Host, Elbio Barilari will share some of the many treasure of Latin American chamber music. Join us for this in-depth look at the wonderful world of Latin American chamber music.

A Tribute to Silvestre Revueltas

October 27, 2018

The mastery of this Mexican genius will be highlighted in works for the orchestra, chamber groups and solo instruments.

Early Music from Spain and the New Spain

October 20, 2018

The Newberry Consort has focused on Early music from Spain and New Spain (as present day Mexico was known when it was a part of the Spanish empire). The recordings featured in this program underscore the continuity of Colonial music as a part of the tradition of western music, including some pieces that were performed for the first time in 300 years.

Afternoon Music