Ibiti Project receives musical tribute. Suite No. 1, composed by Lucas Soareswas presented in a piano concert at the Oca
Known for bringing together sustainability, culture and art, Ibiti now also has a soundtrack to call its own. Resident pianist Lucas Soares presented Suite No. 1 for the first time, an unprecedented work composed in honor of Ibiti, in two exciting concerts held at Oca in November 2024. Written especially for the project, the suite consists of 13 pieces that translate the essence of the place, its stories and its characters into music.
Inspired by the natural beauty and unique atmosphere of Ibiti, Lucas describes his work as "a modest translation of perceptions of the world into the language of sounds". Each piece carries a special meaning: from the imposing density of "Jequitibá Rosa", which evokes the majesty of this century-old tree, to the lightness of shorter compositions, almost like musical portraits. Among the inspirations, the pianist mentions the great masters of classical music, such as Bach, Chopin and Liszt, who helped shape the narrative of the suite.
As well as being a tribute to Ibiti, Suite No. 1 is dedicated to Berenice Machado, who was fundamental in Lucas' career. When she heard him play 16 years ago at the Guairá Foundation in Andrelândia (MG), she encouraged him to further his studies and connected him with Professor Benito in Juiz de Fora, marking his development as a pianist. On the first page of the edition of the score, this dedication is inscribed, celebrating the impact that Berenice's vision and sensitivity had on his life.
Lucas Soares dedicates Suite No. 1 to Berenice Machado, the pianist's great mentor
Historic piano on the Oca stage
The performances were made even more remarkable by the instrument chosen: the 1874 Steinway piano, which turned 150 this year. Made from Brazilian rosewood and steeped in history, the piano was transported from the Gaia Café to the Oca in a carefully planned operation. "It was complex logistics. We called in a specialized team to dismantle, transport and reassemble the instrument, all closely monitored by tuner Carlos Gustavo Kersten," says Lucas.
In addition to all the care taken with transportation, the Oca's environment brought a unique dimension to the experience. "The acoustics of the Oca are fascinating. The wood and the piassava absorb almost all the sound, which gives the space a studio-like feel," says the pianist.
Connecting cultures
Lucas highlighted the thrill of bringing together two seemingly opposite worlds: the Oca, which represents the cultural roots of Brazil's native peoples, and the piano, a symbol of the European tradition in music. "Placing these two elements in the same space was an interesting experience, a meeting of different cultures and times," the pianist reflects.
The concerts brought together guests, employees and special guests at Ibiti, creating moments of contemplation and connection. "We had people from the restaurant, the spa, reception, the construction site, Muriqui... It was incredible to see everyone come out of their corners to listen and get involved with the music," says Lucas.
Next steps
With the premiere of the suite completed, Lucas is already planning to record the pieces in the studio to eternalize this musical tribute to Ibiti. "I'd love to record these compositions, which were born so connected to the spirit of the project and the stories it carries," he shares.
"This song is about Ibiti, but it's also for everyone who loves what it represents. Music has the power to transport us, to make us realize nuances that we often miss in everyday life. The idea was to translate the textures, sounds and energy of Ibiti into something that everyone could feel," he concludes.
As the keys of the 150-year-old historic piano in the Oca demonstrate, art has the power to connect histories, times and cultures in a special harmony.
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