Nicolas Lell Benavides
Composer
Originally from New Mexico, Nicolas Lell Benavides’ music frequently explores themes of Latinidad, and has been recognized for its “touches of cabaret, musical theater and Latin dance” (OPERA NEWS). His work is supported by the National Endowment for the Arts, Opera America, New Music USA, and Innova Recordings.
In addition to Tres minutos, Nicolas and librettist Marella Martin Koch are writing Dolores for West Edge Opera’s Aperture commission. Their first opera, Pepito, has been performed all over the country after its premiere with Washington National Opera, and is available online.
Other premieres include Caravana de mujeres with librettist Laura Barati for MassOpera, On Trac|< for The Glimmerglass Festival, a new orchestral work for the Gabriela Lena Frank Composing Earth initiative, and a new album with Friction Quartet and Melinda Martinez Becker. He has also worked with groups such as Left Coast Chamber Ensemble, Khemia Ensemble, and the Fry Street Quartet.