Monday, June 9, 2025
12 PM
Join us for a captivating concert with Folias Duo, the celebrated pairing of flutist Carmen Maret and guitarist Andrew Bergeron. With over two decades of collaboration, they are renowned for their seamless fusion of classical, jazz, world music, and improvisation. Their original compositions, inspired by life on the road and the beauty of the natural world, transport audiences with vivid storytelling through music. This performance will feature highlights from their newest works, including pieces inspired by the Great Lakes.
Don’t miss this opportunity to experience the artistry of two trailblazing musicians defining the flute and guitar ensemble!
“Theirs is a music that transcends genre and that ultimately brands itself as Folias Duo music, full stop.”—Textura on Heartdance 2023
Folias Duo is a distinguished musical ensemble, renowned for its remarkable fusion of classical and contemporary influences. Comprising flutist Carmen Maret and guitarist Andrew Bergeron, this married duo has cultivated a unique and enduring performer-composer collaboration spanning two decades. Their exceptional artistry breathes fresh vitality into classical music, infusing it with the rich tapestry of jazz, world music, and improvisation, crafting meticulously curated and evocative compositions.
As accomplished composers and performers, Folias Duo continually explores the technical and sonic possibilities inherent in their intimate flute and guitar combination. Their innovative approach has garnered acclaim and recognition from the industry, with Flutist Quarterly hailing them as “top talents,” a distinction that underscores their singular position within the contemporary flute and guitar ensemble landscape.
Headquartered in Grand Rapids, Michigan, Folias Duo operates as a self-managed performing group, captivating classical music audiences across the United States, South America, and Europe. They specialize in crafting performances for discerning audiences seeking creative, artistic, and out-of-the-ordinary musical experiences. The duo has graced venues such as the Detroit Institute of Arts, Chicago Botanic Gardens, and the National Flute Association Convention, among others, in addition to numerous intimate listening rooms, library theaters, and Guitar Society meeting spaces.
With an impressive discography encompassing eight albums, including releases on Blue Griffin Recording and their own Folias Music label, they have consistently showcased their original compositions and innovative arrangements. Their recent offerings, including “Dreaming to Live,” “Delicate Omens,” and “Heartdance,” further demonstrate their dedication to pushing the boundaries of musical expression and inspiring audiences with their visionary artistry.
Website: https://www.foliasduo.com
Promo Video: https://youtu.be/2_-73my8C0g?si=8PImStYW5TqBwHLP
What does Folias mean?
Flutist Carmen Maret and guitarist Andrew Bergeron joined forces in 2003 to establish the Folias Duo. The name "Folias" is an homage to "La Folia," a timeless European melody that has served as a wellspring of inspiration for composers over centuries. With each culture adding its unique interpretation and nuance to this enduring melody, "Folias" encapsulates the Duo's diverse musical influences and creative spirit.
Free concerts at noon every Monday year-round . . . no wonder the Mini-Concerts are the longest-running and one of the most popular classical music series at the library! This series was founded by Glenna Hazleton in 1970 at the Athenaeum, and has been going strong ever since. The concerts feature both local and touring musicians, prize-winning students, university music faculty members, local chamber ensembles. . . and the repertoire also includes jazz, folk, and world music. There are no reservations, no tickets . . . just line up at the side door of the Athenaeum before noon. (Donations are always welcome!) Mini-Concerts take place every Monday at noon and last about an hour.
The concerts will be in person at the Athenaeum Music & Arts Library. There are no physical tickets for these events. Doors open at 11:50 a.m. Seating is first-come; first-served.