“Las manos de Alicia” presents a poignant portrait of Alicia de Larrocha (1923-2009), both as an individual and an artist. From her early years, her exceptional talent was unmistakable. However, unlike the typical child prodigy who experiences short-lived success, Alicia embarked on a prolific international career that spanned her lifetime.
Dedicating her life to music, Alicia was recognized with numerous awards and distinctions, including 4 Grammy Awards, the Prince of Asturias Award, the National Music Award, and the “Commandeur dans l’Ordre des Arts et des Lettres” (Paris). These accolades never diverted her from her primary goal: making music, enjoying it, and delighting audiences by interpreting compositions with the utmost rigor and fidelity to the composer.
This documentary features insights from renowned artists such as Martha Argerich, Maria João Pires, André Previn, and Joaquín Achúcarro, who recognize Alicia de Larrocha as one of the 20th century’s finest interpreters. Beyond her impressive career, which encompassed over 4,000 concerts and extensive global travel, the film unveils a private woman who shied away from the limelight and a dedicated artist who longed for her family.
The captivating soundtrack transports audiences from her birthplace, Barcelona, where she gave her first recital at age five, to New York, a metropolis that affectionately dubbed her “Lady Mozart.” These cities resonated with the music of composers like Falla, Granados, Albéniz, Mozart, Beethoven, Rachmaninoff, all brilliantly performed by Alicia de Larrocha alongside top orchestras.
Alicia de Larrocha’s undeniable genius earned her recognition not only from critics but also from fellow musicians and countless fans. It is imperative to introduce this great artist to a broader audience, which is precisely the aim of Doble Banda Productions through this documentary. It reveals the strength, passion, technique, vulnerability, and tenderness of this remarkable performer.
This documentary is a co-production of Doble Banda Productions, RTVE, and TV3, directed by Verónica Font and Yolanda Olmos, with cinematography by Pablo García.
