Catalan trio, Aluca

Aluca are a delightful and hugely talented trio from Spain, specialising in bringing the traditional polyphonic songs of Catalonia and the Balearics to life. Pitchblend are bringing them to tour the South of England during July 2026, and again in October, to give concerts and workshops in the North of England and in Glasgow. Aluca Trio hail from Catalonía and the Balearics, and teach and sing polyphonic songs rooted in the traditions and vocal and sound aesthetic of the Northwest Mediterranean. Their repertoire has a particular emphasis on traditional Catalan polyphony, but includes Occitan and Basque songs, as well as songs from Mallorca, Sicily, and Lombardy. Their approach is to tell stories through song, connecting listeners to the past through living traditions that speak also to the present day – songs of lament, celebration, and play, together with sacred songs, lullabies, and original compositions. Always they seek to present the songs with context and expression that ensures they resonate with the lived experiences of both singers and listeners. Their workshops are a masterclass in teaching. Patient, clear, engaging and fun, they are highly responsive to the needs of their students, and bring the songs to life with their deep insight into the essential characteristics of their musical heritage. The polyphonic songs of the Northwest Mediterranean, which they will teach, are highly accessible, and an ideal introduction to folk music from beyond the British Isles. The workshop is open to all. Songs will be taught by ear, and there is no need to read music or to know the language.