The composer and educator Baltasar Bibiloni i Llabrés has received the highest distinction from Binissalem in an emotional event that included the premiere of his cantata 'Ex Ore Infantium'.
The municipality of Binissalem now has a new Illustrious Son. Baltasar Bibiloni i Llabrés, composer, musicologist, and a key figure in choral singing, received the highest honorary distinction awarded by the Town Hall last weekend. The event, held in the courtyard of the Ca don Andreu cultural centre, brought together family, friends, institutional representatives, and numerous locals who wanted to accompany the honouree on a day filled with emotion.
A career dedicated to music and education
The mayor of Binissalem, Víctor Martí, was the one to open the event. He highlighted that the recognition not only rewards an "extraordinary career as an educator, musicologist, and composer," but also "the simple, approachable person deeply rooted in his community." Martí emphasised that Bibiloni has dedicated his life to music and the training of generations of musicians, projecting the name of Binissalem and Mallorca through culture.
The speech advocating for the appointment, delivered by Maria Magdalena Pons, reviewed Bibiloni's life and work. She emphasised his decisive contribution to the renewal of music education, his promotion of choral singing, and the legacy of a body of work that has influenced several generations. Subsequently, Rafel Ramis read the report from prosecutor Enric Morales, who was absent for personal reasons, stating that Bibiloni "has been, and continues to be, a moral and artistic voice within our community," fully justifying the appointment.
The portrait and the tribute concert
One of the most emotional moments was the presentation of the institutional portrait of the honouree, created by portrait artist Núria Bosch. The work will become part of the gallery of Illustrious and Adoptive Sons of the Town Hall of Binissalem, a space that recognises the most significant figures in the municipality's history. The mayor asserted the importance of preserving the legacy of those who have contributed to the growth of the town: "Recognising those who, with their talent and dedication, have enhanced the name of our land is a collective obligation."
The day continued at the church of Santa Maria de Robines with a tribute concert organised to mark the appointment and the 90th anniversary of the composer. The Coral Universitat de les Illes Balears, the Women's Choir of the UIB, and the Youth Choir of Joventuts Musicals de Palma and the UIB, conducted by Núria Cunillera, presented a programme that culminated in the absolute premiere of the cantata Ex Ore Infantium, composed by Bibiloni himself. A work that, according to attendees, encapsulates his philosophy: music as a vehicle for expression and unity.
A legacy that transcends generations
With this appointment, Binissalem recognises one of the most significant figures in its recent history. Baltasar Bibiloni has dedicated his life to music and the training of generations of musicians. His work as an educator has been key in renewing music education in Mallorca, and his promotion of choral singing has left a mark on dozens of groups. For the people of Binissalem, the new Illustrious Son is not just a name on a plaque: he is the teacher who has carried the name of the town around the world through his scores.
The event, which combined protocol and emotion, also served to remind everyone that culture is a fundamental pillar of local identity. The mayor encouraged those present to continue working so that Bibiloni's legacy inspires new generations. The evening concluded with a small reception where attendees could personally congratulate the honouree, who appeared visibly moved.
For those who could not attend, the Town Hall has announced that the portrait of Baltasar Bibiloni will be on display at the Ca don Andreu cultural centre over the coming weeks, during public opening hours. An opportunity to closely appreciate the work of Núria Bosch and pay tribute to a local resident who has made music his life.
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