Leonardo Soto Performs World Premiere of Timpani Concerto by Andy Akiho

Born out of a close collaboration and friendship between composer Andy Akiho and Houston Symphony principal timpanist Leonardo Soto, Timpani Concerto is a meditation on the word “Soto.” Soto honors both musicians' heritages– translating soto in Japanese to “outside” while in Spanish it can mean “grove.” Each movement takes on a different version of these combined meanings: I. Sotogawa – meaning “outer river” or “outside” II. Sotto Voce – meaning “under the voice” III. Sottosopra – meaning “upside down” In the concerto, the movements explore the timpani's unique color and sonority while redefining the traditional role of the timpani in the orchestra. It is a powerful and energetic work full of dramatic, expressive and vocal moments!