Last night, I found myself submerged in the rich and passionate world of the Three Mexican Tenors at the Nashville Symphony. As I take you through this captivating musical adventure, let’s dive into the heart and soul of the experience.
Our three protagonists, Jorge Lopez-Yañez, Cesar Sanchez, and Bernardo Bermudez, are a powerhouse of talent. Jorge, a leading tenor on operatic stages worldwide, has undeniable charm and charisma. Cesar praised for his heroic intensity and passionate voice, has been bestowed the title of “Ambassador of the Arts” by the Mexican government. Bernardo, with his exceptional vocal range, brings depth and versatility to the group which is truly awe-inspiring. Under the guidance of Enrico Lopez-Yañez, the Principal Pops Conductor of the Nashville Symphony, the evening was nothing short of magical.
From the moment I entered the venue, I was met with a delightful visual experience. A Mexican art gallery in the lobby welcomed concert-goers, setting the tone for the vibrant cultural journey ahead. The atmosphere buzzed with anticipation, and as I took my seat, I knew I was in for a treat.
As the show began, the symphony and conductor Enrico captivated the audience with a mesmerizing performance of “Overture to Candide.” The music soared, stirring emotions deep within, as the stage was set for the arrival of the tenors. When the trio finally appeared, their rendition of “Funiculi Funicula” was so energizing and engaging that goosebumps erupted on my skin. It was clear this was not your typical sit-still, stay-quiet symphony experience. The tenors invited us to participate, making us feel like we were part of the performance rather than mere spectators.
The performance of “Maria” from West Side Story was a touching tribute to love, as one of the tenors shared how it was his father’s favorite song and how his father would always sing it for his mother, also named Maria. Jorge Lopez-Yañez’s moving rendition of “You Raise Me Up” showcased his incredible stage presence and deep connection to the music. The added bond between Jorge and his son, conductor Enrico Lopez-Yañez, made the performance even more poignant.
Libiamo was the perfect ending to the first set, leaving the audience feeling euphoric and invigorated. The tenors invited us to dance and drink, transforming the symphony hall into a festive celebration. It was refreshing to see the performers engage with the audience in such an authentic and intimate way, reminding us of the power of music to bring people together. As the first set came to a close, the audience left their seats with a renewed sense of excitement and energy, eager to refill their drinks and prepare for the next set As much as the classical pieces like “O Sole Mio” and “Con Te Partiro” enchanted the audience, we were there to pay tribute to Mexican music, and the Tenors did not disappoint. The crowd erupted in excitement when the tenors and conductor appeared on stage in traditional charro outfits, fully immersing us in the vibrant and passionate culture of Mexico.
Their performance of “Granada” was awe-inspiring, setting the stage for a series of medleys celebrating Mexican singers and songwriters. This half of the show became a thrilling ride through Mexican pop and mariachi music. Tributes to Juan Gabriel, Vicente Fernandez, and Luis Miguel had the audience singing along wholeheartedly, fully embracing the spirit of the evening. A journey through different regions of Mexico, including a trip to Zacatecas, allowed us to imagine Zapateado and scream “VIVA!” in unison. By the end of the night, the concert had become a love letter to Mexican culture, leaving me breathless and teary-eyed.
The Three Mexican Tenors transported us on a journey filled with raw passion, soulful culture, and emotional depth. The dynamic fusion of classical and traditional Mexican music proved that music can be a bridge that unites different worlds, cultures, and backgrounds. They showcased the powerful ability of music to transcend borders and bring people together, sparking a sense of unity and connection in the hearts of everyone in the audience.