An Evening with Ana-Carmen Balestra

In “Pájaro Libre”, soprano Ana-Carmen Balestra explores music about freedom, identity, and heritage. The programme connects classical songs by Gabriel Fauré, Barbara Strozzi, and Astor Piazzolla with South American folk songs and repertoire by Mercedes Sosa. “Bésame Mucho”, along with lesser-known repertoire from Latin America, is also not to be missed during this evening. Balestra is accompanied by pianist Daan Boertien and cellist Maya Fridman, supplemented by guitar and percussion.

Ana-Carmen Balestra studied at the Conservatorium van Amsterdam, the Copenhagen Opera Academy, and the Guildhall School of Music & Drama, where she was awarded the Silver Medal. She has performed at, among others, the Royal Danish Opera, Welsh National Opera, and Opera2Day. In the 2025/26 season, she is a finalist of Dutch Classical Talent.

Balestra is one of the three nominees for the Grachtenfestival Prize and part of the ‘An Evening with’ series. On Friday 14 August, all nominees will be heard once more both solo and together, and the winner will be announced.

Musicians

Ana Carmen Balestra soprano

Maya Fridman cello  

Daan Boertien piano 

Marianna Soroka percussion

Kelly Johannes guitar