“Alabanza” is a new work by Mexican composer Francisco Cortés-Álvarez performed by Rose Wollman (viola), Maria Brea (soprano) and Dror Baitel (piano). The single is the first release from Wollman’s recent (October 2026) album, Becoming America. “Alabanza” sets music to Martin Espada’s poem, “Alabanza: In Praise of Local 100,” which tells the story of the Latin American kitchen workers who were working in the World Trade Center on September 11, 2001. Needless to say, this is not music for relaxation or easy-listening, but is an important classical work. Wollman and Cortés-Álvarez first met as students at Indiana University, and Wollman commissioned Cortés-Álvarez to compose this work. Quoting Wollman:

“I feel incredibly lucky to have been able to commission this piece from him. Francisco’s voice and his creative approach to colour and orchestration make this piece magical.”

The piece begins with the rhythmic energy of the kitchen on an ordinary morning. As the tragedy unfolds, the music becomes much darker and more disorienting. Wollman’s viola solo goes straight to the heart with its mournful message later in the 14 1/2 minute piece. The piano and soprano return for a powerful close, reflecting the confusion, fear and horror of that unthinkable day in US history.

“Alabanza” is available to download and stream on Amazon and Apple Music/iTunes as well as on many streaming platforms including Spotify, Pandora and YouTube.