Classical Music With a Chicano Influence
Richard Goodman discusses the origins, influences and styles of Chicano Classical music. Because social and economic conditions were not conducive to the development of the fine arts in the Chicano community, most composers lived in Mexico. For much of the 19th century, European classical music influenced Mexican composers immensely, and they trained in Germany, France and Italy under the great masters of the time.
After the 1890s, Mexican composers, such as Carlos Chavez, began to produce classical music that was uniquely Mexican in origin. In the post-war period, Mexican composers began to incorporate rhythms from other countries, while continuing to develop their own style. Several of these composers, including Agustin Lara and Maria Greever, became famous in the United States and other countries. Also during this period, Chicano classical musicians and composers emerged in Texas and California where they formed their own orchestras and groups. Lydia Mendoza and Beto Villa have been two of the most famous Chicano classical musicians.
KEYWORDS
Agustín LaraBeto Villa
Boleros
California
Carlos Chavez
Chicano Composers
Chicano Music
Classical Music
Composers
Composition
European Influences
Flute
France
German music
Germany
Gustavo Campa
Harp
Italian influence
Julian Carrillo
Leipzig Conservatory
Lydia Mendoza
María Grever
Melesio Morales
Mexican Composers
Musicians
Orchestra
Piano
San Antonio
Texas
Violin