ersa misllanea

Album Description

Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Manuel Ponce's musical genius with "ersa misllanea," a captivating collection of works that span the composer's illustrious career. This album, expertly performed by Bertrand Chavarria-Aldrete, offers a comprehensive journey through Ponce's diverse compositions, showcasing his mastery of both traditional and modern classical styles.

The album opens with a "Preludio," a piece that Ponce wrote shortly after his arrival in Paris, characterized by its impressionistic quality and modal inflections. This sets the tone for the rest of the collection, which includes a variety of sonatas, songs, and preludes that highlight Ponce's versatility and depth as a composer.

One of the standout pieces is the "Sonata I 'Mexicana'," a four-movement work that beautifully blends Mexican folk influences with classical structure. The "Tres canciones mexicanas" further emphasize Ponce's ability to integrate his cultural heritage into his music, resulting in pieces that are both lyrical and evocative.

The "Seis preludios cortos" ("Six short preludes") are another highlight, written shortly before Ponce's death and showcasing his soulful sophistication. These preludes, along with the "Variations sur 'Folía de España' et Fugue," demonstrate Ponce's technical prowess and his ability to innovate within classical forms.

Recorded in 2020 and released under the Odradek Records label, "ersa misllanea" is a testament to Manuel Ponce's enduring legacy. With a duration of just over an hour, this album is a treasure trove for classical music enthusiasts, offering a deep dive into the works of one of Mexico's most celebrated composers. Whether you're a longtime fan of Ponce's music or a newcomer to his compositions, this album promises a rich and rewarding listening experience.

30 okt 2020

(P) 2020 Odradek Records

About Manuel Ponce

Manuel María Ponce Cuéllar, affectionately known as Manuel M. Ponce, stands as a towering figure in Mexican music, celebrated for his role in bridging the gap between classical music and traditional Mexican folklore. Born in 1882, Ponce's musical journey began in his native Mexico, but his education took him to Italy and Germany, where he honed his craft. Recognised early on as a child prodigy, Ponce's compositions are deeply rooted in the harmonies and forms of traditional Mexican songs, making him a pivotal figure in Mexican musical nationalism.

Ponce's legacy is vast and varied, encompassing a wide range of works from popular songs and guitar pieces to orchestral compositions. His guitar sonatas, composed between 1923 and 1929 and dedicated to the legendary Andrés Segovia, are particularly notable and constitute the first collection of their kind. Beyond his compositions, Ponce's work as a music educator and scholar has left an indelible mark on Mexican music, elevating the status of guitar music and preserving the rich tapestry of Mexican musical heritage. His influence extends beyond Mexico, with his pedagogical principles and dedication to music education earning him recognition in the Philippines as well. Ponce's contributions continue to inspire and educate, making him a beloved figure in the world of music.