Alicante Provincial Council’s ADDA will host the tenth Ciudad de Chorus Meeting this Sunday at noon, welcoming audiences in Alicante. The day features performances from the Alicante University Choir as hosts, the L’Alfàs Canta Polyphonic Choir, and the Alicantina Tobacco Choir, all contributing to a shared celebration of vocal artistry.
The UA Choir, led by Shlomo Rodríguez, presents a curated program that includes classic choral arrangements and contemporary pieces. Selections include traditional favorites and modern scores, with a cast of singers that includes a host of soloists and ensembles. The program will feature works such as Mary Poppins by Richard and Robert Sherman and pieces exploring color and tone in music, alongside crowd-pleasers and collaborative arrangements. Choreographers María Eulalia, Lara Navarro, and Juan Carlos Calleja create movement to accompany the musical offerings.
Murcia Baroque Orchestra brings Bach’s music to ADDA
Polyphonic Chorus Sings L’Alfàs, conducted by José Antonio Rubio Barber of Lavapiés, presents a varied repertoire that blends traditional choral works with contemporary arrangements. The program includes pieces rooted in regional and international musical traditions, with featured performers such as Gabriella Torok on piano, soprano Victoria Pérez del Olmo, accordionist Ana Margaretto, and cellist Joaquín García Sivera.
Coral Tabaquera Alicante, under the baton of Carlos Catalá Picó, engages with songs from afar. The program includes Portillo’s arrangements and selections by J. Serrano, with performances of Lamparilla’s entrance and other festive pieces. The ensemble is joined by soloists Lina Davia, Eliseo Fabra, Ascensión Perona, Ángel Alcón, and María Carras, with instrumental support from Oscar Marco and Daniel Catalá.
behind the choirs
There is a long history behind the three groups taking part in the Alicante City Choral Meeting. The University of Alicante has maintained a choir for over 25 years, with the current model introduced in the 2007/2008 academic year. The ensemble integrates vocal education with public performances and academic events. It operates under the Vice-Rector’s Culture, Sports and University Publications Department, with goals that emphasize learning, enjoyment, and community through singing. Its mission includes preparing members for musical and social growth, while participating in UA events and concerts. The program also encourages participation in national and European competitions and exchanges with other choirs. Shlomo Rodríguez has served as the musical director since the 2016/2017 academic year.
Coral L’Alfàs Canta began in 2010, born from a shared passion for choral music. The ensemble brings together around forty voices from more than ten nationalities. Supported by the L’Alfàs del Pi City Council, the group serves as an ambassador for the town. Its participation highlights include international cultural exchanges and regional festivals, showcasing how choir music can bridge communities across borders.
Virtuós Mediterrani celebrates solidarity concert at the Alicante Congress Palace
Historically, Alicante’s Tabaquera Coral traces its roots to May 20, 1844, a fire at the local tobacco factory that reshaped the community. The disaster prompted workers to seek solace and unity through shared song, leading to annual masses in the Monastery of the Holy Face. In 1982, factory workers formed a chorus and entrusted leadership to Carlos Catalá. Since then, the group has organized many concerts and participated in liturgical celebrations, as well as regional and international competitions and cultural events organized by the Generalitat Valenciana. This history underpins the rich choral culture that continues to thrive in the region.