April 11th

Alberto Ginastera 11 April 1916 - 25 June 1983

Estancia (Dances from)

Alberto GinasteraBy Annemarie Heinrich - Annemarie Heinrich, Centro Editor de América Latina, Buenos Aires: 1982., Public Domain, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=72911520
Alberto Ginastera
By Annemarie Heinrich – Annemarie Heinrich, Centro Editor de América Latina, Buenos Aires: 1982., Public Domain, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=72911520

Alberto Ginastera was an Argentine composer born on 11 April 1916 in Buenos Aires. He is known for blending Latin American folk music with classical styles. Ginastera studied at the National Conservatory of Music and became famous for his unique musical voice. His early compositions featured a style called nacionalismo, which celebrated Argentine folk elements. Later, his music evolved into modernist forms.

Ginastera’s work is divided into three main periods. The first, Objective Nationalism, directly used folk rhythms. The second, Subjective Nationalism, transformed these elements into personal expressions. The last, Neo-Expressionism, introduced new techniques and experimental sounds. Some of his most famous pieces include “Estancia,” a ballet about the Argentine countryside, and “Concerto for Harp,” a significant work for the instrument. Ginastera’s influence on music continues to this day, as his compositions are performed around the world.