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

Romantic Music from Argentina and Brazil

June 7, 2026, 8:00 pm

Fiesta presents compositions by two giants of Romantic music, the Argentine Alberto Williams and the Brazilian Henrique Oswald.

Chamber Tango

June 14, 2026, 8:00 pm

We will feature some of the masters of tango, including Astor Piazzolla, Pablo Ziegler, and José Bragato.

Back to Portugal

June 21, 2026, 8:00 pm

Fiesta pays another visit to the amazing past and present of Portuguese music. Host, Elbio Barilari will share the many hidden musical treasures from this often-overlooked musical country.

Music for Peace

February 10, 2024

Inspiring, moving, and beautiful works by Latin American masters advocating for World Peace. Host Elbio Barilari will share works that will bring a sense of calm and meditation. Including Argentinean Ariel Ramírez’s Misa Criolla.

Gloria Villanueva: Catalonian Composer

February 3, 2024

With a musical and psychological education, Gloria Villanueva's music is fascinating and introspective. We will share some of her most exciting works, including her Rapsòdia Simfònica for orchestra, guitar, and harp.

Arturo Márquez: Mexican Composer

January 27, 2024

The great living Mexican composer Arturo Márquez is featured on this Fiesta. We'll hear his Danzón Nos. 3 and 4 and his Cello Concerto featuring Carlo Prieto.

Black and white portrait of Mozart Camargo Guarnieri

Camargo Guarnieri Festival

January 20, 2024

Fiesta pays tribute to the amazing Brazilian composer Camargo Guarnieri, and we’ll hear his masterful Symphony No. 6.

black and white group photo of musicians standing outside in front of a rustic wall

Baroque Music from the Americas and Spain

January 6, 2024

Exploring the strong connections between European music from the past and Latin American music.

in a slightly weathered black and white photo, Dorival Caymmi strums a guitar

Choral Music of Latin America

December 30, 2023

From European traditions to the native cultures, choral music has always been a part of Latin America’s musical identity. Fiesta will highlight some of the great Latino composers of this art form.

Classical Christmas in Latin America

December 23, 2023

Fiesta celebrates the season with a brand-new recording of Jose Mauricio de Nunes Garcia monumental mass entitled “Missa de Nossa Senhora da Conceição”.

Romantic Latin America

December 16, 2023

Fiesta features two passionate and romantic Latin American masterpieces from Argentina and Brazil. Constantino Gaito’s String Quartet No.1 and Francisco Mignone’s Piano Concerto.

Closeup of portrait of Alberto Williams, looking serious and sporting an impressive mustache

Argentine Composer: Alberto Williams

December 9, 2023

Born in Buenos Aires in 1862, Alberto Williams was one of the first Argentine composers that reached international fame. “Fiesta” visits his symphonic and piano works.

Music from Catalonia

December 2, 2023

US born pianist Mac McClure has developed a strong relationship with Catalonian music scene. We will feature a selection of his solo piano recordings as well as vocal and chamber recordings by great Catalonian composers Joan Comellas, Joaquim Casssado, Pau Casals and more.