“Five from the Folder: Latin American for Mixed Voices” by Cristian Grases

FIVE FROM THE FOLDER: LATIN AMERICAN FOR MIXED VOICES by Cristian Grases

1. “El Santigüao.” Federico Ruiz. Published in the book “Makumbebe” by Carus CA.230200
Prelude and Fugue on a Venezuelan theme. Powerfully written and rhythmically intricate

2. “Jubiaba.” by Carlos Alberto Pinto Fonseca. Earthsongs S-149
A magical recreation of a candomble ceremony that shifts between scenes and ends in a frantic and rhythmic climax

3. “Tres Epitafios.” Rodolfo Halffter. Peer Musikverlag (PEERM00021, PEERM00022, and PEERM00023)
Delightful suite of three a cappella madrigals with a Spanish flavor and tantalizing beauty

4. “Bin Nam Ma” by Alberto Grau. Earthsongs S-166
A powerful depiction of nature’s power in homage of the victims of Venezuela’s largest natural disaster of modern times.

5. “Arroz con Leche” Carlos Guastavino. Kjos 8910
A fugue written based on a popular Latin American children’s song. Playful, with the perfect balance of melodic and rhythmic challenges. This piece would be a fabulous addition to any ensemble.

 

(“Five from the Folder” provides brief, text-length reviews of vocal works currently in the folders of choral directors throughout the United States.  To share five from your folder, contact Scott Dorsey at )