Sweet Symphony

Sans was born in Catalonia, Spain, where he began studying music at age 5. The wunderkind transitioned over to the States in 2006, where he studied at the University of Michigan's School of Music, eventually traveling to Albuquerque to conduct the New Mexico Philharmonic in 2012.

This is when Gregory Heltman, founder and general director of the Santa Fe Symphony, first heard Sans' name. Heltman notes that many of his musicians have also played with the New Mexico Philharmonic, a practice that isn't uncommon in the orchestral world, and highly recommended Sans.

"He's very energetic; he brings a sense of 'the whole' to the music," Heltman says. "Most conductors bring a sense of the 'whole,' but what Oriol brings to his technique is the ability to encourage the players with his vision."

Many of those unfamiliar with classical music and conducting look at the conductors as other performers, unsure of the role they are playing. Along with Sans' energy, Heltman recalls his last concert with the Santa Fe Symphony and applauds his sense of purpose in every movement.

"It was very, very expansive and exciting," says Heltman. "He's an exciting conductor. His conducting is not about showmanship; his movements have very important and specific musical content."

The seasonal concert, titled "Fall Gold," encompasses four pieces: Concierto de Aranjuez by Joaquín Rodrigo; William Tell Overture by Gioachino Rossini; Tchaikovsky's Symphony No. 4; and Danzón No. 2 by Arturo Márquez.

Concierto de Aranjuez prominently features renowned classical guitarist Jason Vieaux. Heltman is especially excited for Danzón No. 2, a contemporary piece written in 1994, making it an infant in terms of classical music, saying "people won't be able to help tapping their feet to it."

4 pm Sunday, Oct. 19. $22- $77

Lensic Performing Arts Center

211 W San Francisco St.,

988-7050

Santa Fe Reporter