Click image for song "Tierra Morena"

Since its inception in 1990, the Orquesta de Instrumentos Andinos has been a most unique musical institution. It is the only full orchestra comprised entirely of Andean instruments. Part of the Developmental and Musical Diffusion Unit of the Municipality of Quito, the orchestra features 35 musicians, all of whom plan Andean instruments, such as the quena and the charango.

Theirs is a one-of-a-kind sound - Andean in character, but adapted to the style of a conventional symphonic orchestra. Styles explored by this innovative group include the traditional European classics from such immortals as Bach, Mozart, Beethoven and Villalobos, as well as typical Ecuadorean folk music, and other Latin themes - all interpreted with the personality and charm of Andean acoustic instruments.

The orchestra's unique sound derives from a medley of wind, chord and percusion instruments, all native to the Andean region. According to the director of the OIA, Juan Espinoza, the interpretation of this format depends on musical modifications or specific adaptations by the orchestra in each of its pieces. Arrangements must be specially created as scores for this kind of music exist nowhere in the market.

In 2001, the Orquesta de Instrumentos Andinos became the Andean Musical Arts Foundaton (AMAF), producing in its inaugural year, the CD Festejos: la fiesta de la música del Ecuador. The group also participated in the Eighth International Arts Festival in San José, Costa Rica.

The Foundation is currently involved in establishing a school of music
program, with the aim of stregthening the musical and cultural education of Quito's youth from an Ecuadorean perspective.

The OIA has also performed at the 2002 International Arts Festival in Costa Rica, the Banco de la República and University of Nariño in 1993 and 1995. In 1997, the group played in Colombia and in Itamaratí, Brazil the following year. The orchestra was also nominated to travel to Lima to represent Ecuador at the signing of the peace treaty between Ecuador and Peru in 1998, following the Andean nations' border war.

The OIA maintains a busy schedule in Ecuador, performing throughout the country, with special attention paid to schools.

Musical Releases:

1993: Disco de las fiestas de Quito, LP
1996: Música clásica de los grandes maestros
1998: Música sacra ecuatoriana (with other groups)
2002: Festejos, CD

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Updated: 11/01/04