Migration, Movement, Connection: Alma Latina  
Concertnova presents an interdisciplinary experience 
celebrating Latino and Hispanic heritage.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE


CINCINNATI, OH – On February 22 at 4:30 PM, concertnova presents Alma Latina, a Mainstage concert curated by cellist Nicholas Mariscal that explores identity, migration, and cultural exchange across the Americas. The program centers Latin American composers and reflects the lived experiences of Cincinnati’s immigrant communities through music, storytelling, and participatory art.


“This program is about the way culture moves and takes root,” says Mariscal. “To move and share is to stay alive. Music shows us that identity is not something to hide, but something that expands the beauty of the place we call home.”


The concert features works by Heitor Villa-Lobos, Gabriela Ortiz, Paul Desenne, Angélica Negrón, Osvaldo Golijov, and others, spanning folkloric traditions, contemporary classical language, and cross-cultural fusion. The performance will be presented in a mix of Spanish and English, with translation available. concertnova is committed to creating a welcoming environment for immigrant community members and audiences of all backgrounds.


In advance of the performance, interdisciplinary artist Julia Orquera Bianco led a free community art workshop on February 1 at The Well. Participants created paper butterflies and linked garlands reflecting themes of migration, resilience, and belonging. These artworks will be installed in the concert space on February 22.


Concert attendees will also be invited to contribute their own butterfly and/or paper link to the garlands during the event, expanding the installation in real time as part of the shared experience.


Photos from the February 1 workshop are available here (credit Daniel Iroh, photographer):
Art Workshop Photos


FEATURED PERFORMERS
Nicholas Mariscal, cello and artistic direction
Michael Chertock, piano
Rebecca Pancner, flute
Christopher Philpotts, oboe
Marty Garcia, bassoon
Red Door Quartet
• Nicholas Mariscal, cello
• Rachel Charbel, violin
• Philip Marten, violin
• Gabriel Napoli, viola


Mainstage Concerts


Concertnova’s #mainstage concert series presents large-scale events that put classical music front and center. Expect to hear amazing musical performances and explore new ideas from an interdisciplinary lens.


About concertnova:
concertnova is a Cincinnati-based chamber music ensemble dedicated to pushing the boundaries of classical music through innovative programming, collaborations, and community engagement. By blending art forms and amplifying diverse voices, concertnova creates immersive musical experiences that resonate with modern audiences.




WHO: concertnova


Featured Performers:
Nicholas Mariscal, cello and artistic direction
Michael Chertock, piano
Rebecca Pancner, flute
Christopher Philpotts, oboe
Marty Garcia, bassoon
Red Door Quartet
• Nicholas Mariscal, cello
• Rachel Charbel, violin
• Philip Marten, violin
• Gabriel Napoli, viola


WHAT: Alma Latina
WHEN: February 22, 2026 at 4:30 PM
WHERE: ARCO | 3301 Price Avenue | Cincinnati, OH, 45205
TICKETS: available now at concertnova.com
ABOUT: click here for press kit | click here for info on concertnova | 
CONTACT: Brianna Matzke (info@concertnova.com) or Sara Danner Dukic (sara@maiarts.it)


EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR: Brianna Matzke
PROGRAM ARTISTIC DIRECTOR: Nicholas Mariscal


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