Rosa Mercedes
Castanet Concert Soloist
" Virtuoso castanet work "
" La Reina de las Castañuelas "
El Nuevo Herald
Dance Magazine
" Hypnotically precise "
New York Times
"Mercedes attacked with footbeats, withheld in her proudly arched torso, flirted with hip and shoulder, imperiously lifted her architectural ruffled skirt, tilted her head in self satisfied glory and showed such possession of self and spirit that one knew, as an onlooker, that one's emotions were her instrument... such exquisite flame, rhythmic accuracy and quicksilver moodchanges that it left the audience shouting"
Miami Herald
Intermedio from La Boda de Luis Alonso (Gimenez)
Rosa Mercedes, Featured Castanet Soloist
New World Center with Jacomo Bairos conducting (Produced by Roberto Berrocal)
In addition to her accomplishments as a dancer, Rosa Mercedes has earned international recognition as a castanet concert soloist, a highly specialized art form that combines virtuoso percussion technique with the expressive traditions of Spanish music and dance. Her castanet performances have been featured with orchestras, opera companies, festivals, and concert presenters, showcasing an artistry that critics have praised for its dazzling precision, remarkable musicality, and technical brilliance. Whether performing as a soloist or integrating castanet artistry into her choreographic work, she has helped elevate the instrument beyond its traditional role, bringing renewed visibility to one of Spain's most distinctive artistic traditions.
La Traviata
Rosa Mercedes, Featured Castanet Soloist & Dancer
Metropolitan Opera (Production by Franco Zefirelli)