"Brava Sal" translates to "angry salt" in Spanish. It is a variation on the expression "salsa brava," which roughly means "fierce salsa." The substitution of "sal" (salt) for "salsa" (sauce) creates a playful word game, shifting the focus away from traditional salsa rhythms and toward a deeper exploration of its essence.

In this piece, I aim to evoke certain elements of salsa, such as the "tumbao" bass line (featured in the cello), blending them with harsh harmonies (e.g., the opening chord) and other melodic, occasionally introspective, narratives. Formally, I shaped these ideas by alternating between homophonic tutti sections and polyphonic structures, where smaller instrumental combinations—solo, duet, and trio—come to the forefront.

Xuying Zhang, Flute  
Anna Gagane, Clarinet  
Danang Dirhamsyah, Piano  
Inés Vega, Violin  
Alonso Urrutia, Cello

Martín Rincón Botero, Conductor.

Live recording.