Celebrated composer and Surrey alumna Odaline de la Martinez marks 75th birthday with campus concert
Cuban-American composer and conductor Odaline de la Martinez, affectionately known as Chachi, returned to the University of Surrey to celebrate her 75th birthday with a concert featuring a star lineup of musicians, including Surrey alumni, students, and professional colleagues.
Chachi, an Honorary Visiting Professor and proud Surrey graduate, has long championed women composers, Latin-American music, and contemporary works. The concert programme included pieces by Chachi, her Surrey composition tutor Reginald Smith Brindle, and Professor of Composition Stephen Goss, alongside music from other esteemed composers.
Dr Chris Wiley, Head of Music and Media at the University of Surrey said:
“We were truly honoured that Chachi chose to spend this milestone birthday back on campus, furthering her long-standing relationship with the University. It was wonderful to have welcomed an audience of over 100 people who had travelled far and wide for Chachi’s big event, and particularly heartening that there were so many other Surrey music graduates (now professional musicians) among the performers.”
The evening’s performers included pianists Samantha Ege and Maureen Galea, cellist Clare O’Connell, violinist Caroline Balding, and the University of Surrey Chamber Choir, for whom Chachi recently composed a new piece. Special guest, sculptor Christine Charlesworth, joined Chachi to unveil a statue of Surrey-based composer Ethel Smyth, marking another nod to her dedication to celebrating women in music.
Odaline expressed her gratitude, stating:
“It was a joy to hear so much of my music played to such a high standard by performers ranging from leading professionals to the student choir. I’d like to thank all those at the University of Surrey who made this event possible.”
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Note to editors:
- Dr Chris Wiley is available for interview, please contact mediarelations@surrey.ac.uk to arrange.
