The year 2026 will see the celebration of the 150th anniversary of Manuel de Falla's birth, who was born in Cádiz in 1876. Falla is regarded as one of the most important Spanish composers of the 20th century, renowned for his musical nationalism and deep roots in Andalusian folklore. His most celebrated works include the ballets El amor brujo and El sombrero de tres picos, the orchestral piece Noches en los jardines de España, and the opera La vida breve.
In honour of this esteemed composer, the Education and Culture Service of the Diputación Provincial de Albacete has developed an educational project that includes a series of concerts in various municipalities within the province. These performances will showcase some of Falla's greatest works, interpreted by the ensemble Collis Musicae.
Collis Musicae is a wind quintet based in Albacete, dedicated to bringing the richness and versatility of chamber music to the public. The ensemble comprises musicians with solid training and extensive performance experience, having developed their careers in higher conservatories across Spain and collaborated with numerous professional orchestras, symphonic bands, and chamber groups nationwide.
Additionally, a didactic guide has been published to help students from educational centres and municipal music academies gain insights into the celebrated composer prior to the concerts. The performances will explore Falla's music through three special pieces: La danza del molinero from El sombrero de tres picos, Siete canciones populares españolas, and El amor brujo.