Cordero's Concierto Festivo, for guitar and string orchestra, is his fourth concerto, written in 2003 and dedicated to legendary guitarist, Pepe Romero. It was commissioned by the University of Puerto Rico, to celebrate the 100th Anniversary of its foundation, and the re-opening of its Theater. The Puerto Rico Symphony Orchestra was conducted by Maestro Guillermo Figueroa. This concerto has three movements, written in a modal and neo-Romantic style, in which the contrapuntal elements of the Spanish Renaissance combine with contemporary harmonies giving it a distinctive flavor which is present in most of Cordero's works. As in his previous concerti, Afro-Antillean influences occasionally appear in this composition, with their rich, sumptuous rhythms. Ernesto Cordero explores creatively the sonorous resources of the guitar offering it a virtuoso solo feature enriched by dialogues with the other instruments. In many lyrical sections of the piece, the guitar shines and projects a romantic spirit, through beautiful phrases that reflect Cordero's passion for life and for his beloved Puerto Rico.
- Carlos Barbosa Lima, April 21, 2006