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Pato will display her gaita skills along with her band The Cristina Pato Quartet in concert at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 27, at the Clark State Performing Arts Center’s Turner Studio Theatre.
The show is presented by the Clark State Performing Arts Center as part of its Club Kuss Series.
While the Scots may have the highest profile for bagpipes, Pato said the instrument can be found in several countries and cultures with the basics the same and the individual players making it unique.
“The reality is wherever there’s a shepherd there’s a bagpipe,” said Pato. “You can find them all over. In our area it represents who we are.”
Starting at age 4, Pato was destined to play the gaita, although she also excels at the piano.
She would make her mark with her first album, also becoming the first solo female Galaician gaita player to make one.
“I don’t have a way to explain it in words, it’s the vibration,” Pato said of the special sound of the gaita. “It takes time, passion, commitment.”
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Pato isn’t just focused on her own sound. She complements other artists, including an ensemble formed by acclaimed cellist Yo-Yo Ma that resulted in a Grammy-winning album, and she’s part of his non-profit educational group and other programs.
Pato’s most recent album is titled “Latina” and her music explores Latino music in its various forms and her concerts include a journey that takes the audience through many such countries.
The show will draw from her six albums. Whereas many audiences aren’t sure what to expect from one of her shows, Pato is always pleasantly surprised how quickly they respond.
“After five to 10 minutes, they discover they can enjoy the band and what we offer. It’s where the magic happens,” she said.
WANT TO GO?
What: Cristina Pato
Where: Turner Studio Theatre, Clark State PAC, Kuss Auditorium, 300 South Fountain Ave., Springfield
When: Saturday, Jan. 27, 7:30 p.m.
Admission: $30 (plus ticket and facility fees)
More info: 937-328-3874 or go to http://pac.clarkstate.edu/events/calendar/cristina-pato-club-kuss/
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