Jorge Mejia’s ‘If’ Takes Journey from Miami Beach to Abbey Road
Before stepping into famous studios and recording with renowned orchestras, Jorge Mejia’s journey with his piano concerto, If These Walls Could Talk, began in a small Miami Beach apartment building on Collins Avenue. This building, located at 221 Collins Ave., was once Mejia’s residence and served as the emotional and architectural inspiration for his three-movement concerto, reflecting memories and the historical significance of Miami Beach.
Apple Music Classical features the 2026 recording of If These Walls Could Talk, performed by Mejia, the London Symphony Orchestra, and conductor Ricardo Jaramillo. The three movements, titled “I. First Floor,” “II. Second Floor,” and “III. Rooftop,” delve into the stories and experiences of past residents who occupied the building. Mejia shared that the building sparked curiosity in him, wondering about the lives of those who lived there before him and the stories embedded within its walls.
Through the concerto’s movements, Mejia weaves together narratives of individuals who crossed paths with the building over the years. The first movement, “First Floor,” conveys a sense of urgency and storms, while the second movement, “Second Floor,” explores intimate themes with a question-and-answer structure. The final movement, “Rooftop,” progresses with themes of repetition, release, and defiance, shaping the concerto’s overall dramatic character without descending into melodrama.
Despite being a key figure in the music industry as the president and CEO of Sony Music Publishing Latin America and U.S. Latin, Mejia seamlessly transitions from his corporate role to his passion for composing. He believes that both aspects of his career require effective communication of a vision, whether it be leading a team in the corporate world or emotionally connecting with audiences through his music.
The release of If These Walls Could Talk on Apple Music Classical serves a dual purpose for Mejia. Beyond being a convenient platform for streaming classical music, it helps bridge the gap between the genre and listeners who may feel intimidated by its complexities. Mejia appreciates the platform’s ability to streamline metadata, making classical music more accessible and engaging for a broader audience.
The concerto’s journey extends beyond the U.S. premiere, with Mejia having performed it internationally in countries like Spain, Uruguay, and Colombia. The U.S. premiere at the Adrienne Arsht Center saw Mejia showcasing his work alongside the Frost Symphony Orchestra, marking a significant milestone in his music career.
While recording at Abbey Road Studios with the London Symphony Orchestra was a dream come true for Mejia, the deepest dedication within If These Walls Could Talk lies in honoring his late mother, Nancy Pulecio. Her musical influence, as a singer-songwriter, resonates throughout the concerto, adding a personal touch to Mejia’s tribute to his heritage, family, and the transformative power of music.