The 'Carranca' and 'Seny Major' bells, the two oldest of the six housed in the Basilica of Santa Maria de Cervera, celebrated their 600th anniversary last year. These instruments are recognized for their heritage value and for preserving traditional bell-ringing techniques, such as the 'Toc de Festa', which involves resting the bells upside down. The 'Seny Major', due to its considerable weight, requires the participation of six bell-ringers for this maneuver.
To commemorate these six centuries of history, local composer Jordi Castellà Rovira created a musical work that premiered with great success on April 5, 2025, in Cervera's Plaça Major. Under his direction, six musicians performed six pieces, accompanied by six bells and six traditional bell-ringing patterns, alternating on stage.
The composition is a suite of six movements that explore the relationship with the bells, festivities, and popular culture of Cervera. Each musical piece is preceded by a traditional bell-ringing, creating a dialogue between contemporary music and bell-ringing tradition.
SIX is a self-financed album by the author, available in CD format at various establishments in Cervera and also on platforms: Spotify, Youtube, and iTunes.
Due to the concert's positive reception, the album 'SIX' will be released on April 1st. This self-financed production by Castellà will allow the public to enjoy the music performed a year ago, holding great symbolism for the city of Cervera, the Segarra region, and popular culture in general. The album will be available in CD format at various establishments in Cervera and on digital platforms such as Spotify, YouTube, and iTunes.
The recording of 'SIX' features Mariona Tuset Casas, Xavier Roig Capdevila, and Ester Niubó Trilla on cellos; Gerard Enrique Vilandeny on electric guitar; Ricard Grau Santesmasses on drums; and Jordi Castellà Rovira on electric bass and synthesizers. Technical recording was handled by David Casamitjana, and graphic design by Jordi Sàrries.
