‘Celtic Beethoven’: A fusion of Classical and Celtic Traditions
The Botín Center is set to host the final performance of a three-part concert series on February 10, showcasing the remarkable talents of Galician musician and bagpiper Carlos Núñez. Titled Celtic Beethoven, this event celebrates Beethoven’s compositions inspired by the rich musical heritage of Ireland, Scotland, and Wales.
Núñez masterfully blends the intricate ornamentation and soul of Celtic folk music with Beethoven’s iconic compositions. This unique performance bridges the gap between the classical genius of Beethoven and the vibrant cultural fusion he envisioned over 200 years ago.
Recently, Celtic Beethoven debuted in France in a grand orchestral format, featuring the Orchester National de Brittany and renowned opera singer Bryn Terfel. The performance received glowing reviews from The World and other leading French publications. The St denis Festival concert was also recorded and released by Deutsche Grammophon, further cementing its acclaim.
Meet the Artists:
Carlos Núñez (flutes and bagpipes)
Jon Pilatzke (fiddle)
María Sánchez (classical violin, voice)
Bleuenn Le Friec (harp)
Raúl Mirás (cello)
cover photo: Javier Salas
Duration: 75 minutes
This event is designed for audiences of all ages, offering a captivating experience for both young and adult attendees.
General admission: €14.
Friends: €7. / Premium €0, upon withdrawal of entry.
Botín Center.
A Fusion of Music and Passion: An Interview with Carlos Núñez and Sports Legend Xavi Hernández
Moderator: Welcome, everyone, to this special edition of Beyond the Game, where we bridge the worlds of sports and culture. Today, we’re joined by two remarkable individuals: Carlos Núñez, the celebrated Galician musician and bagpiper, and Xavi Hernández, the legendary former FC Barcelona midfielder and current coach. Together, we’ll explore the interesting intersection of music, sports, and cultural heritage, inspired by Carlos’ upcoming performance of Celtic Beethoven at the Botín Center.
Moderator: Carlos, let’s start with you. Your Celtic Beethoven concert series has been described as a groundbreaking fusion of classical and Celtic traditions. What inspired you to create this unique blend?
Carlos Núñez: Thank you for having me. The inspiration came from Beethoven himself. Did you know that Beethoven was deeply influenced by Celtic music? He incorporated Irish, Scottish, and Welsh folk melodies into some of his compositions. I wanted to honor that connection and bring it to life in a way that resonates with modern audiences. It’s about celebrating the universality of music and how it transcends time and borders.
Moderator: Xavi, as someone who has spent your life in the world of sports, do you see parallels between music and football?
Xavi Hernández: Absolutely. Music and football are both global languages. They evoke emotions, tell stories, and bring people together. Just like Carlos blends classical and Celtic traditions, football is a fusion of styles—tiki-taka, counter-attacking, or physical play.The beauty lies in how these elements come together to create something greater than the sum of their parts.
Moderator: That’s a fascinating comparison. Carlos, your recent performance in France with the Orchester National de Brittany and Bryn Terfel received rave reviews. How does it feel to see your work celebrated on such a grand stage?
Carlos Núñez: It’s incredibly humbling. Performing with such talented artists and orchestras is a dream come true. The fact that Deutsche Grammophon recorded and released the concert is a testament to the power of this project. It’s not just about me—it’s about the music, the history, and the shared passion of everyone involved.
Moderator: Xavi, you’ve experienced similar moments of acclaim in your career. How do you handle the pressure and expectations that come with performing at the highest level?
Xavi hernández: Pressure is part of the game, just as it is indeed in music. The key is to stay focused on your craft and trust your readiness. Weather it’s a Champions League final or a World cup, the goal is to give your best and enjoy the moment. I imagine it’s the same for Carlos when he’s on stage.
Moderator: Speaking of preparation, Carlos, your concert features an incredible lineup of artists, including Jon Pilatzke on fiddle and María Sánchez on classical violin. How do you ensure such diverse talents come together seamlessly?
Carlos Núñez: It’s all about collaboration and respect. Each artist brings their unique voice to the performance, and my role is to create a space where those voices can harmonize. It’s like conducting an orchestra—everyone has a part to play, and when it all comes together, it’s magical.
Moderator: Xavi,as a coach,you’re now in a similar position,guiding a team of individuals toward a common goal. What lessons have you learned about leadership and teamwork?
Xavi Hernández: Leadership is about understanding your players and helping them reach their full potential. it’s not about imposing your will but creating an environment where everyone feels valued and motivated. That’s how you achieve greatness, whether on the pitch or on stage.
Moderator: Carlos, your concert is designed for audiences of all ages.Why is it crucial to make classical and Celtic music accessible to younger generations?
Carlos Núñez: Music is a living tradition. If we don’t share it with the next generation,it risks being lost. By blending Beethoven’s timeless compositions with the vibrant energy of Celtic music, we’re creating something that speaks to everyone, nonetheless of age or background.
Moderator: Xavi, how do you think sports can play a similar role in bridging generational gaps?
Xavi Hernández: Sports have the power to unite people across generations. Whether it’s a child watching their first game or a grandparent reminiscing about past victories, the passion for the game is universal. It’s our obligation to keep that spirit alive.
Moderator: Before we wrap up,I’d like to open the floor to our readers. What are your thoughts on the fusion of music and sports? Do you see parallels between the two worlds? share your opinions in the comments below!
Moderator: carlos, Xavi, thank you both for this enlightening conversation. Carlos, we wish you the best of luck with your Celtic Beethoven performance at the Botín Center. Xavi, we look forward to seeing your continued success on the pitch.
Carlos Núñez: Thank you. It’s been a pleasure.
Xavi Hernández: Likewise. Let’s keep celebrating the beauty of music and sports.
What’s Next?
Don’t miss Carlos Núñez’s Celtic Beethoven concert at the Botín Center on February 10. Tickets are available now, with general admission priced at €14. Join us for an unforgettable evening of music, culture, and inspiration.
Join the Conversation:
What do you think about the fusion of classical and Celtic music? How do you see the connection between music and sports? Share your thoughts below!
