Coro Austral in association with the Cuban Embassy presents a concert of Cuban music to commemorate 35 years of Cuba-Australia diplomatic relations.

You are invited to a concert showcasing Cuban choral and vocal music at its best, commemorating a significant event in the history of Cuba-Australia relations. At the same time you will be helping to support education and music in Cuba.

Diplomatic relations between Cuba and Australia were established on 31st January 1989. According to Cuban Ambassador Dr.Tanieris Dieguez La O cooperation between both countries has been strengthened over the 35 years since, particularly in the arts, education, health, sports, biotech, mining and tourism. This concert celebrates the strong ties between the peoples of Cuba and Australia.

Highly regarded for its performances of Spanish and Latin American music, Coro Austral, conducted by Artistic Director Margot McLaughlin, will present choral arrangements of Cuban songs, including favourites such as 'Chan Chan' of Buena Vista Social Club fame, 'Quizás, Quizás, Quizás', made famous in the Australian film Strictly Ballroom, and 'El Manisero' as well as works by renowned Cuban composer Beatriz Corona ('Corazón Coraza' and 'Solo de Guitarra') and arrangements by choral legend Electo Silva ('La Tarde' and 'Juramento').

Guest artists include The Third Voice, a trio consisting of talented female vocalists Clarita Derwent, Gemma Turner and Christina Mimmocchi. Each is an experienced solo artist in her own right, and in The Third Voice, they collaborate to curate material from a variety of sources that they love. In this concert they will be joined by percussionist Jess Ciampa to present songs from the Afro-Cuban tradition.

The concert also features renowned Chilean/Australian musician Hernan Flores who will perform songs from his Cuban repertoire, including by Silvio Rodriguez and Pablo Milanés. He will also accompany Coro Austral on percussion.

This concert is sponsored by Inner West Council, and proceeds will go towards providing much needed equipment to selected arts and educational organisations in Cuba.

After the performance we hope you will join the Cuban Ambassador and performers for wine and refreshments.