Celebrating Diego Fernandez – CSN News

David Sackler February 18, 2025 Almeria, Costa del Sol Leave a comment

Soprano and harpsichordist Luisa morales. Flautist Alison Melville. Credit: Vera Town Hall, FB

I was privileged to attend a concert by Francesca Calero (soprano), Luisa Morales (harpsichordist) and Alison Melville, flautist, at Vera’s Auditorium on Friday, February 15th.

Earlier that day, I had attended a Luisa morales masterclass. Her suggestions led to immediate improvements in the performances of participants, which brought visible joy to them. Diego Fernandez was a son Vera’s and a famous 18th century harpsichord maker. Her respect for him was obvious. She promotes his work with passion to the public. This is especially important because 2025 will be the 250th Anniversary of Fernandez’s death.

Vera celebrates Spain’s musical heritage

Morales gave me the opportunity to talk with her between the masterclasses as well as the rehearsals for the three soloists. I asked her to explain why she decided on the harpsichord. She explained that, while studying in Barcelona at the Conservatory of the Liceu Theatre, she fell for Baroque Music, which made the move to the harpsichord seem natural.

Morales told me that she’s proud of having recently signed a deal with Cambridge University Press to be the editor of The Cambridge Companion Domenico Scarlatti, due for release in the year 2028.

Luisa is not only a talented performer but also a scholar who champions historical keyboard music. She incorporates elements of historical dance and theatre into her performances, while actively reviving 18th-and 19th-century piano traditions. As the Artistic Director and founder of FIMTE–the Spanish Keyboard Music Festival, she has promoted research, publications, and performances of Spain’s rich musical heritage on an international scale.