jmc's classics
Today is the anniversary of the premier of Carlos Chavez's (1899-1978) Second Symphony in 1936. Carlos Chavez was one of the foremost Mexican composers. He is associated with Mexican music like Dvorak with Czech music and Greig with Norwegian music and Sibelius with Finnish music. It is called Sinfonia India.
This is his most popular work. He wrote five other symphonies. There is only one recording available of the other five. The version that I have is of all six on the Brilliant Classics label. it is of the London Symphony Orchestra conducted by Eduardo Mata. This work is in one movement and is based on melodies of norther Mexican Indians. Thus comes the name "Sinfonia India". it has nothing to do with the music of India. It is in one movement and three sections. There are a few other one movement symphonies. Sibelius' Sixth Symphony is a good example. Another one is William Schuman's Sixth Symphony. It lasts around 12 minutes. when we think of Mexican music we usually think of mariachis. Cinco De Mayo is not even an Important holiday in Mexico. it was invented in the United States. It commemorates the Mexican battle over France in 1862 in the battle of Puebla. Mexican independence Day is on September 16. it is similar to St. Patrick's Day for the Irish. i do like good Mexican food. I do hope that all of Chavez's works become more popular. 36
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