Alas

Immerse yourself in the rich, orchestral tapestry of Alberto Ginastera's "Alas," a captivating album that showcases the composer's mastery of both traditional and contemporary musical forms. Released on January 26, 2024, via Evidence Classics, this 59-minute journey through Ginastera's sonic landscape is a testament to his unique voice in the world of classical music.

The album opens with the hauntingly beautiful "Alas" and "Descaminos," followed by the evocative "Llorando silencios." These pieces are followed by "Six Quechua Songs for Cello Solo," a set of compositions that draw inspiration from the indigenous Quechua culture of the Andes, offering a glimpse into Ginastera's deep connection to his South American roots.

The centerpiece of the album is "Variaciones Concertantes, Op. 23," a sprawling, twelve-movement work that features a diverse array of instruments, each given a chance to shine in their own unique variation. From the playful "Variazione giocosa per Flauto" to the dramatic "Variazione drammatica per Viola," and the rhythmic "Variazione ritmica per Tromba e Trombone," this piece is a tour de force of orchestral composition.

Ginastera, an Argentine composer known for his innovative use of folk rhythms and modernist techniques, has crafted an album that is both intellectually stimulating and deeply moving. "Alas" is not just a collection of songs, but a cohesive exploration of Ginastera's musical language, one that is equal parts challenging and rewarding. Whether you're a seasoned classical enthusiast or a curious newcomer, this album is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Alberto Ginastera, born in Buenos Aires in 1916, is widely regarded as one of the most significant 20th-century classical composers from the Americas. His music is a vibrant fusion of Argentine folk elements and modern compositional techniques, reflecting his deep roots in his homeland's cultural heritage. Ginastera's career spanned three distinct musical periods, each marked by his evolving style and innovative approaches to composition.

Ginastera first gained international recognition in the 1940s with his ballet scores "Panambí" and "Estancia," which showcased his nationalist style and deep connection to Argentine folk music. Throughout his career, he composed a diverse range of works, including operas like "Bomarzo" and "Beatrix Cenci," ballets, concertos, and pieces that incorporated microtones, serialism, and aleatory music. His ability to synthesize local and national idioms with contemporary techniques set him apart as a leading figure in Latin American classical music.

Ginastera's early musical training began at the age of seven with piano lessons, and he later attended the Conservatorio Alberto Williams, where he received a gold medal in composition in 1935. His prolific output and influential compositions have left an indelible mark on the world of classical music, making him a pivotal figure in the development of Latin American musical identity.