Expect the unexpected at Spectrum. For the first time in the USA, we hear the extraordinarily innovative piano works of Hèctor Parra (IRCAM), a Catalan composer based in Paris. Sitting alongside that is a première in progress by UK composer Sam Hayden. To conclude, José Menor's own, strikingly original new work, Fragments for Clare, composed specially for the occasion.

2016 sees José Menor on an international tour performing 'Goyescas' by Granados, for his anniversary. Venues have included Carnegie Hall (New York), the ‘Meet in Beijing’ Arts Festival (China), and the 'Martha Argerich Project' (Lugano). Future dates include St John’s Smith Square in London, UK (2 November) and venues in Germany, Spain, Switzerland and Belgium. Further international engagements include works by Beethoven, Chopin and Ligeti. His longstanding collaboration with composer Hector Parra (IRCAM), continues; he will be premiering Parra's first piano concerto with the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra (CBSO) in 2019. Two CD recordings, one of Parra's works, and one of 'Goyescas', are planned in 2016-17.

“Pianistically extraordinary”

– Martha Argerich

“A multifaceted and incredibly talented pianist and composer”

– Gabriela Montero

Image: "Fragment No. 10", (c) Jose Menor