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Laura Farré Rozada

Laura Farré Rozada

Dr. Laura Farré Rozada is a distinguished pianist and mathematician, recognized as a 'Rising Star' by BBC Music Magazine and honored as a 'New Talent' by the BIME Equity Awards in 2022. She received the American Classical Young Musician Award in Washington D.C. (USA) the same year and was granted an honorable mention at the Premi Creu Casas 2025 by the Institut d'Estudis Catalans. Described by Serra d'Or magazine as "one of the most valued performers of her generation, with dozens of awards and distinctions on the five continents," Laura's achievements reflect her significant contributions to both music and academia.

Her doctoral studies at the Royal Birmingham Conservatoire were supported by the British Arts and Humanities Research Council through the prestigious Midlands4Cities AHRC Doctoral Studentship. Laura served as a musician in residence in the UK (BCMG: NEXT Scheme 2018-2019) and in Canada (Laurier University 2017, Banff Centre 2019), with her Canadian residency backed by the Cyril and Elizabeth Challice Fund for Musicians Award. From 2024 to 2027, she will hold the position of artist and lecturer in residence at CosmoCaixa in Barcelona and CaixaForum, with activities planned across Sevilla, Zaragoza, Valencia, and Madrid.

In 2025, Laura released her third solo album, Araspel, which pays tribute to Armenia's musical heritage and has earned the Premi Cast@fiore 2025. Her second album, Nimbus (2021), garnered 12 awards in the USA (Los Angeles, San Diego, New York), Greece, and Spain, including the Premi Talent Cambra 2021, and received a nomination for Best Classical & Contemporary Album at the Premis Enderrock 2022. Classical Music Magazine praised her debut album, The French Reverie (2018), describing it as "a model for young artists making their recording debuts." Each of these projects was supported by crowdfunding from 250 patrons across 30 countries and five continents.

As a soloist, Laura has performed throughout Spain, France, Belgium, Germany, the Faroe Islands, the UK, Malta, Slovenia, Bulgaria, Serbia, Armenia, Canada, the USA, Argentina, and Singapore. She has graced prestigious venues including Carnegie Hall (New York), Southbank Centre (London), Holzmarkt 25 (Berlin), Usina del Arte (Buenos Aires), and Palau de la Música Catalana (Barcelona), among others. Laura has also participated in notable festivals such as Summartónar (Faroe Islands), VIAF (Malta), and the ‘Ligeti in Wonderland’ Festival (London), curated by Pierre-Laurent Aimard.

Laura's collaborations have included work with conductors such as Edmon Colomer, Timothy Lines, and Jean Deroyer, and she has performed with ensembles like the Birmingham Contemporary Music Group and the International Contemporary Ensemble (New York). Her live performances have been broadcast on various platforms, including France 3, BBC Radio 3, and Sveriges Radio P2 (Sweden). Additionally, she has been featured in national and international media outlets, including BBC Music Magazine and Classic FM Radio, and has received accolades at competitions across the Americas, Europe, and Asia. Notably, her work was highlighted in the exposition D’ONES: Women’s (R)evolution in Music, commissioned by Enderrock Magazine, and she appeared in the documentary Revolutionary Quartet, l'enigma Gerhard, which premiered at the In-Edit Barcelona film festival in 2023.

With a strong commitment to contemporary music, Laura has collaborated with renowned composers like George Crumb and Brian Ferneyhough, premiering 22 world premieres and 90 national premieres of works by influential figures such as John Cage and Unsuk Chin. She has commissioned and premiered three Piano Concertos by Feliu Gasull, Joel Järventausta, and Angela Elizabeth Slater, with support from various arts organizations. Her recordings feature six world-premiere performances, and her interpretations of Ofer Ben-Amots' piano works are archived at the National Library of the State of Israel.

As a researcher, Laura's focus encompasses music and mathematics, musical memory, and performance psychology. Currently, she is an Associate Professor at the Polytechnic University of Catalonia (UPC) and the Catalonia College of Music (ESMUC). She has served as a guest lecturer at institutions such as Boston University and the Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM). Her scholarly work has been published in several music-related journals, and she has presented at conferences hosted by prestigious organizations, including the Royal Musical Association and the American Musicological Society.

In addition to her performance career, Laura is an accomplished radio broadcaster, directing and presenting shows such as La cinta de Möbius on Catalunya Música, which received the Premi Matemàtiques i Societat 2023. She collaborates with Spanish National Radio and has created series focusing on performance psychology. Laura has also arranged music for choirs and collaborated with visual artists and indie bands, further diversifying her artistic portfolio.

Laura completed her Master of Music degree at the Royal College of Music in London, where she was an RCM Patrons’ Award Holder, graduating with an 'Exceptional' Distinction. She also holds Bachelor's and Master's degrees in piano from the Catalonia College of Music and a Bachelor's degree in Mathematics from the Polytechnic University of Catalonia, earning Distinction Awards throughout her studies. Her training includes mentorship from numerous distinguished instructors in both music and mathematics.

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On This Day in Music History

Prince Releases His Landmark Album 'Controversy' (1981)

On April 12, 1981, Prince unleashed his game-changing album 'Controversy', which was both a critical and commercial success. The album, released on the cusp of what would become his iconic 'Purple Rain' era, showcased Prince's genre-blending prowess, delving into funk, rock, and pop, all while addressing provocative themes around politics, religion, and sexuality. The title track, 'Controversy', quickly climbed the charts, reaching No. 3 on the Billboard R&B chart and solidifying Prince’s status as a daring artist unafraid to push societal boundaries.

'Controversy' was Prince's fourth studio album and featured standout tracks like 'Sexuality' and 'Do Me, Baby', both of which became staples in his live performances. The original pressing of the album on vinyl remains highly sought after by collectors, with limited edition releases often fetching impressive prices at record stores and online auctions. This album not only showcased Prince's musical innovation but also his ability to blend and transcend genres, paving the way for future artists.

The album's cover art, featuring Prince in a provocative pose, mirrored the themes present in the music, encapsulating the very essence of the provocative persona he became famous for. As 'Controversy' boldly mixed funk rhythms with rock guitar riffs, it laid the groundwork for the eventual pop dominance of the artist, who would go on to inspire countless musicians across multiple genres.

Prince's legacy has endured well beyond his years, with 'Controversy' viewed as a crucial stepping stone in the evolution of American music. Even decades later, the album continues to resonate, reminding listeners of the power of music to challenge norms and inspire change. Today, music lovers scramble to find original vinyl copies as a way to connect with this essential work in Prince's discography, a testament to his lasting impact on the music world.

Funk/rock Prince

Album of the Week

Rock

Blonde on Blonde (1966)

Bob Dylan
Blonde on Blonde by Bob Dylan

Released in May 1966, Bob Dylan's 'Blonde on Blonde' emerged as a groundbreaking double album that melded rock, folk, and blues into a cohesive masterpiece. Recorded in Nashville, it was one of the earliest double albums in rock music history, showcasing its ambition and influence. The album was met with critical acclaim upon release, with many hailing it as one of the greatest albums of all time. Its innovative use of studio techniques and lyrical depth marked a significant evolution in Dylan's artistry. Musically, 'Blonde on Blonde' is notable for its fusion of genres, featuring electric guitars, organ, and a full band, which was a departure from Dylan's earlier folk-centric sound. Standout tracks such as 'Rainy Day Women #12 & 35,' with its catchy refrain and brass instrumentation, and the haunting 'Just Like a Woman,' exemplify Dylan's lyrical prowess and musical experimentation. Additionally, 'Visions of Johanna,' often regarded as a pinnacle of songwriting, showcases surreal imagery and complex emotions. When collecting 'Blonde on Blonde' vinyl, enthusiasts should pay attention to pressing variations, particularly the original Columbia Records mono pressing (CL 36067) and the later stereo versions (CS 9601). The original mono pressing is highly sought after, with matrix numbers such as XSM 1001-1A and XSM 1002-1A indicating early pressings. Collectors also appreciate the appeal of label variations, including the 1970s reissues on the orange label. Current market value ranges from $20 for less-than-ideal condition copies to upwards of $300 for pristine originals in mono. Condition is crucial, as many pressings suffer from surface noise or wear, making well-maintained copies particularly desirable. Collectors seek 'Blonde on Blonde' not only for its musical significance but also for its cultural impact and the evolution of Bob Dylan as an artist. This album remains a definitive statement in rock history, making it a must-have for any serious vinyl collector.

Standout Tracks:
  • Rainy Day Women #12 & 35
  • Just Like a Woman
  • Visions of Johanna
Pressing Notes: Look for original mono pressings (CL 36067) and stereo versions (CS 9601) with early matrix numbers like XSM 1001-1A.
Value: $20-$300 Collectibility: High

Vinyl Collector Tip #102

Cleaning

Mastering Vinyl Care: Effective Cleaning Techniques

Cleaning your vinyl records is crucial for maintaining their sound quality and ensuring their longevity. Dust, fingerprints, and grime can all affect playback, leading to pops, clicks, and distortion. You should invest in a quality carbon fiber brush for regular cleaning; this helps remove debris without scratching the surface. For deeper cleaning, consider a gentle, alcohol-free cleaning solution specifically designed for vinyl care. Apply a few drops to a microfiber cloth and wipe the record in a circular motion, matching the grooves. This method not only protects your investment—potentially preserving the $100+ value of rare records—but also enhances the listening experience by revealing the full depth of the audio. After cleaning, store your records vertically in a climate-controlled environment to prevent warping and further contamination. Remember, proper preservation techniques can significantly increase the lifespan of your collection. Pro tip: Always clean your stylus with a specialized brush after each session; this reduces the transfer of dirt back onto your records, ensuring your vinyl stays pristine for years to come.

Pro Tip: Use an anti-static brush before and after each play to reduce buildup.

Vinyl Market Pulse

↑ Up

Blues Vinyl: Market Trends for 2026

The vinyl market for Blues records is experiencing a notable resurgence in 2026, with collectors eager to snap up both classic and contemporary titles. Original pressings of legendary artists like B.B. King and Muddy Waters are now commanding prices upwards of $200, a significant increase from approximately $50 last year. This surge can be attributed to a combination of nostalgia, the recent passing of influential Blues artists, and a slew of documentaries that highlight the genre's rich history. As younger generations discover the deep roots of Blues through streaming and film, the demand for vinyl has intensified.

Collectors are advised to focus on rare pressings, particularly those with unique album art or limited releases. Look out for reissues from respected labels, as they often appreciate in value over time. Selling duplicates or lower-demand titles can free up funds for more sought-after records.

Looking ahead, the outlook for Blues vinyl remains optimistic. As appreciation for the genre grows, we anticipate prices will continue to rise, making it a solid investment for collectors. The ongoing interest in vinyl records as a physical format also supports this trend, ensuring that Blues remains a vibrant part of the collecting landscape.

Hot Artists: B.B. King, Muddy Waters, Etta James

Genre Spotlight

Reggae

The Essential Guide to Reggae Vinyl Collecting

Reggae vinyl collecting is a vibrant and rewarding pursuit that taps into the rich history of Jamaican music, offering collectors a chance to own a piece of cultural history. Originating in the late 1960s, reggae emerged from ska and rocksteady, with roots deeply embedded in Rastafarian culture and social commentary. The golden era of reggae, spanning the 1970s to early 1980s, saw the genre blossom, thanks to influential movements like roots reggae, which emphasized spiritual and social themes, and dancehall, which brought a more upbeat and accessible sound.

Essential to any reggae vinyl collection are the artists who shaped the genre. Bob Marley is arguably the most famous reggae musician, known for albums like "Catch a Fire" (1973), which introduced reggae to a global audience. Peter Tosh, a founding member of The Wailers, infused reggae with political activism, notably in his album "Legalize It" (1976). Burning Spear, with his deep roots reggae sound, crafted timeless classics like "Marcus Garvey" (1975), while Toots and the Maytals brought ska to mainstream consciousness with their energetic performances and songs like "Pressure Drop" (1970). Other key figures include Jimmy Cliff, known for his iconic film and soundtrack "The Harder They Come" (1972), and Lee Scratch Perry, revered as a pioneer of dub music, whose innovative production techniques are celebrated on albums like "Super Ape" (1976).

For collectors, certain albums stand out as must-haves. Bob Marley's "Exodus" (1977) is often cited as one of the greatest albums of all time, blending reggae with rock elements. Peter Tosh's "Equal Rights" (1977) is a powerful statement on human rights and justice, while Burning Spear's "Columbus" (1987) showcases his deep spiritual and historical themes. Toots and the Maytals' "Funky Kingston" (1973) is an essential crossover album that captures the genre's upbeat spirit. Lastly, consider adding Lee Scratch Perry's "The Upsetter" (1970) to grasp the essence of reggae's experimental side.

When diving into reggae vinyl collecting, it's crucial to know what to look for. Pay attention to pressing information, as first presses often hold more value. Labels like Studio One, Trojan, and Island Records are significant, with rare variants such as colored vinyl or limited editions being highly sought after.

The current market for reggae records is flourishing, with collectibility at a high level. Prices can range from $20 for more common titles to $500 or more for rare albums, especially those in mint condition or with unique variants. Collectors often seek out original

Featured Rarity

Why This Album Is Worth Thousands

Please Please Me by The Beatles (1963)

"Please Please Me" is not just a debut album—it's a cultural phenomenon that launched The Beatles into stardom. Original UK pressings on the Parlophone label, particularly the first pressing with the misprinted label ('Love Me Do' spelled incorrectly), are highly sought after by collectors. These rare records can fetch anywhere from $150 to an astonishing $25,000 depending on their condition and specific variants.

The first pressing features the iconic black and yellow label, and you’ll want to check for matrix numbers XEX 421-1N and XEX 422-1N, as these indicate an early pressing. Collectors also look for the 'stereo' label, identified by the 'Sold in the UK' text on the label rim, which adds another layer of desirability.

One intriguing tidbit is that this album was recorded in just a single day, showcasing the raw energy that characterized The Beatles’ early sound. The cover photo taken at the EMI studios encapsulates the youthful exuberance of the band, making the original sleeve a true piece of history.

What truly makes these original pressings special is their connection to a moment when music changed forever. The rush of nostalgia, combined with the pristine sound quality of vinyl, brings collectors back to a time when rock was just beginning to take flight. As you dive into vinyl collecting, don’t miss the chance to own a piece of this history—finding a first pressing of "Please Please Me" is like discovering a hidden treasure!

Current Market Value: $150-$25,000