Following a 2023 commission for the ASO’s Chamber Series, percussionist-composer Javier Diaz curates “Contrapunto Musical”: Musical Counterpoint between Cuba and the United States, a selection of chamber music programs that highlight the rich musical history of Cuba and its influence on American concert music and culture, from the turn of the twentieth century through today. In the first program of this new four-part series, Diaz — whose studio credits include Steven Spielberg’s West Side Story and Lin-Manuel Miranda’s In The Heights — showcases a range of musical styles. The program, “Salon 1898”: Cuban Dance Music at the Turn of the Twentieth Century, will feature danzas, contradanzas, danzones, rumbas, ragtime, and early jazz. Presented on May 19 and 20 at Bryant Park, these two performances will mark the world premiere of Diaz’s unique arrangements for violin, cello, bass, flute, clarinet, trumpet, tuba, and percussion.

This performance is part of a free chamber music series in partnership with Bryant Park with programs curated by ASO musicians. Music-lovers will find a limited number of first-come, first-served chairs set up to enjoy an after-work respite with live music.

The ASO’s Chamber Series is made possible by the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of the Office of the Governor and the New York State Legislature.

This program is supported, in part, by public funds from the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs in partnership with the City Council.