The spirit of South America is coming to Cumbria.

This year's City of Carlisle Orchestra concert – taking place on July 1 – will feature a suite of Argentinian tangos arranged by Hilario Flores Coni.

He is a graduate conductor and a friend of the orchestra's musical director, Leon Reimer.

Hilario, who graduated from the Royal Scottish Conservatoire in Glasgow, was born in Argentina and is keen to bring “a more diverse Latin repertoire” to Europe. He began divising his own arrangements of famous tangos by Carlos Gardel.

“It is a very interesting experience to hear this music played here in the UK,” Hilario said.

“In Argentina, Gardel is to tango what Maradona is to football. Anyone in Buenos Aires, be it a teenager or a 70-year-old, knows these tango tunes, whereas here, in such a different context, for the listener the tangos take on a new colour and become exotic.

“I have also noticed after finishing the work that a full symphony orchestra gives the tangos a somewhat solemn/important character, as opposed to the lighter-textured original songs."

He added: “I am delighted that the City of Carlisle Orchestra has chosen these as part of their repertoire and very much look forward to the concert. I do hope they will enjoy the experience as much as me.”

Hilario was approached by Leon, who was looking for some Latin music to add to the orchestra's repertoire. With sponsorship provided by the Carlisle firm Northern Vacuums, Hilario was then able to complete four pieces to form a suite of tangos for the orchestra.

“As a Carlisle-based, family-run company, we strongly believe in supporting local organisations that enhance the cultural environment of our city and community,” added Grant Etheridge, of Northern Vacuums.

“The City of Carlisle Orchestra is the city's only amateur orchestra. It does a fantastic job of making a wide range of classical music accessible to local audiences, so when we were approached to sponsor an item in the summer concert, we were delighted to do so.

“Coincidentally, our sponsorship for the orchestra is at the same time helping a young, UK-trained musician to further his career and we are very much looking forward to hearing the outcome at July's concert.”

Tickets for the concert – at St John's Church – are priced £8 in advance or £9 on the night. Tickets for children and full-time students half price. They can be bought from orchestra members or Bookcase in Castle Street.