The Obsidiana Duo presents the traditional melodies and rhythms of Ibero America in “The Folk Within Us”

Mezzo-soprano Camila Montefusco, who hails from Brazil, began her musical journey not as a singer, but as an instrumentalist. She spent more than 17 years honing her skills as a violinist and eventually secured a coveted position in an orchestra in São Paulo. It was while playing in the pit for opera productions and ballets that she discovered a new and deeper passion: singing and theatre. So upon her arrival in Canada, Montefusco made the bold decision to switch careers and become an opera singer. She completed a Master’s degree in Voice Performance from the University of Western Ontario and went on to perform in opera productions. But while opera holds a special place in her heart, her musical interests are diverse. In particular, a deep love for Brazilian popular music has led her to explore folk songs, allowing her to connect with her heritage and culture in profound ways.  

Pianist Yolanda Tapia, who is from Xalapa, Mexico, comes from a family deeply rooted in popular music. Growing up surrounded by music, Tapia developed a profound appreciation for various styles, including hard rock, metal, and punk. Despite pursuing a career in classical music, she never lost her love for these other genres. After obtaining a Fulbright Grant to complete a Masters degree, she left Mexico for Canada to pursue her doctoral degree in collaborative piano. Here, she, too, found solace in connecting with the music of her homeland – in her case the rich tradition of Mexican folk music, an enduring source of inspiration for her and many academic Mexican composers. As a collaborative pianist, she rarely selects the music for performances, but embraces every opportunity possible to explore this style of music, as a way to connect with herself and her cultural heritage, and share both with audiences.

Together, Montefusco and Tapia are the Obisidiana Duo. And on June 10, they will captivate audiences with their program “The Folk Within Us,” presented by 5 at the First in Hamilton, Ontario. Ahead of their concert, they spoke with SesayArts about their program, which promises to showcase the vibrancy and rich diversity of folkloric music in Ibero America, and feature the music of historically-excluded composers from their countries of origin.

Sesayarts: What will be on the program on June 10, and what are you most excited for the audience to experience?

Obsidiana Duo: This program features songs and two piano solo pieces by Latin American composers from Mexico (Blas Galindo and Eduardo Gamboa), Spain (Xavier Montsalvatge), Argentina (Alberto Ginastera), and Brazil (Ernani Braga). Each song in our repertoire draws inspiration from the rich tapestry of folk dances found across Ibero America. Through their music, these composers pay homage to their homelands or places they have visited and cherished.

We are excited to share a small taste of the vibrant and diverse musical heritage of Latin America with live audiences. Through this program, we aim to take our listeners, even if just for a brief afternoon, to the heart and soul of these captivating regions. This music encapsulates the unique essence of each place, evoking sentiments that resonate deeply within us all: the desire to belong, to be a part of something greater than ourselves.

We look forward to performing this repertoire that illustrates so well the interconnectedness and mutual influence among these countries. Through song, we aim to not only celebrate the cultural affinities that bind us together, but also explore universal themes that resonate deeply within the human experience.

The music we present delves into the intricacies of day-to-day life, the complexities of love and relationships, the exploration of sexuality, the contemplation of mortality, the historical narratives of colonization and slavery, the pursuit of freedom, and the spiritual dimensions of our existence. These songs encapsulate the breadth of human emotions and experiences, offering a profound and meaningful connection that transcends borders and speaks to the core of our shared humanity.

By sharing these compositions, we hope to inspire a sense of unity and understanding, fostering an appreciation for the diverse tapestry of Ibero-American cultures while highlighting the universal threads that weave us all together.

Sesayarts: What do you like best about working and performing together? Is there something about your partner that you’d like to share?

Obsidiana Duo: We have a genuine and profound connection to this music that comes naturally to us. It’s similar to how pop culture in North America is deeply ingrained in those who were born and raised here. Just like how people have an innate understanding of TV shows, movies, music, and jokes typical to a certain place, we have a similar bond with the music we present. We understand the context, language, circumstances, and all the elements that make this music come to life. For instance, there’s a song in our program that I used to listen to as a child. It was part of my upbringing, and it has become a part of who I am. 

When we perform together, you can hear that undeniable connection between us. It feels like home.

There’s no effort or need for translation. We both intuitively grasp the depth and meaning behind these songs. It’s a shared understanding that brings us closer to each other and to our audience.

Montefusco: I want to share that Yolanda has a giving nature that shines through in everything she does. I deeply appreciate her dedication to the art form we both love, and it is evident that we share a mutual respect and reverence for our craft. I admire her artistry and feel very fortunate to have her in my life. 

Tapia: Camila’s voice is a rare gem, radiating with a captivating and unique color that enchants all who hear it. Through her music, she seamlessly merges her voice with her very essence, creating an extraordinary connection that resonates deeply. Her devotion, inspiring nature, and remarkable talent make her a true treasure in the world of music. I consider myself extremely lucky to have her in my life, as both a cherished duo partner and a dear friend.

Sesayarts: What question didn’t I ask you that you wish I had (and what is the answer)?

Obsidiana Duo: Are there specific common themes or threads that connect the songs and composers of your program? 

Yes, we did notice a fascinating common thread in this repertoire – the presence of lullabies. Across different regions and cultures, lullabies hold a special place as the earliest form of folk music we encounter in life. They represent the primal expression of love and communication, rooted in the simplicity of human existence.

By including lullabies in our program, we hope to evoke a deep connection that transcends language and borders. Ultimately, our expectation is for this concert to leave a lasting impression – an appreciation for the values that unite us all through the folk music of any culture, showcasing the enduring beauty of lullabies and their ability to resonate with people from all walks of life.

Obisidiana Duo’s “The Folk Within Us” is presented by 5 at the First Chamber Players on June 10, 3:00 pm at First Unitarian Church, 170 Dundurn Street S, Hamilton, Ontario. Reserve tickets here.

© Arpita Ghosal, Sesayarts Magazine, 2023