Paraguay’s cultural agenda continues to highlight artistic diversity through accessible public events. A new example is the concert Symphony of Freedom, an initiative that will pay tribute to women’s contributions to music. Also, while strengthening cultural ties between Paraguay and the United States.
The concert is organised by the National Symphony Orchestra of Paraguay (OSN) in collaboration with the Embassy of the United States in Paraguay. Symphony of Freedom will take place on 26 February at 20:00 at the Municipal Theatre Ignacio A. Pane in downtown Asunción. The event forms part of broader cultural activities marking the beginning of celebrations for the 250th anniversary of US independence. This emphasises music as a universal language connecting nations.
Symphony of Freedom, a concert dedicated to women composers
Under the musical direction of Pacita Díez Pérez, Symphony of Freedom will present a repertoire featuring works by female composers. These composers are from North America, Venezuela, and Paraguay. Symphony of Freedom´s programme aims to recognise women’s creative legacy while offering audiences a diverse and emotionally engaging musical experience.
Díez Pérez holds a superior piano degree from Clave de Sol Conservatory. She completed viola studies in São Paulo. Since 2018, she has served as assistant conductor of the orchestra of the Faculty of Music at the National University of Asunción (UNA) and has participated in international seminars. One of these seminars includes one led by Enrique Arturo Diemecke at Colón Theatre in Buenos Aires. Her career also includes directing Vivir Música Conservatory and performing with MuseArt Ensamble and DAS Trío. She currently works as an artistic assistant at the OSN.
Featured guest performers
Symphony of Freedom will also feature pianist María Fernanda Zapata as guest soloist. Born in Caracas, she debuted at the age of twelve with the Miranda Youth Symphony Orchestra. Her career includes performances with leading Venezuelan orchestras and distinctions such as the Order José Félix Ribas. She has scholarships from institutions including Indiana University Bloomington, the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, and Fundación Mozarteum de Caracas.
Also participating is soprano Carolina López, the first graduate in lyrical singing from the Faculty of Arts of the National University of Asunción. She performs as a soloist with the OSN. She also teaches at the Higher Institute of Music and the UNA. Her trajectory includes appearances on international stages, notably the Colón Theatre in Buenos Aires.
Cultural diplomacy through music
Beyond its artistic value, Symphony of Freedom represents an expression of cultural diplomacy. By highlighting women composers and celebrating a historic milestone for the United States, the concert reinforces shared values and creative exchange between both countries.
The performance also reflects the OSN’s broader strategy of bringing symphonic music closer to the public through free and inclusive programming in emblematic venues. With a carefully curated repertoire and distinguished performers, Symphony of Freedom promises an evening that combines tribute, cultural dialogue, and musical excellence.
