Stache to the 3rd Power!!

Mexican food is pretty good, now the only thing else from Latin America or Spain that rocks my socks is. . . the music. Sorry, I am not talking about Ricky Martin, Enrique Iglesias, or Marc Anthony. Nope, I am referring to the piano music of Issac Albeniz, Enrique Granados, and Manuel De Falla. Some of their works are very very nice. They definitely have their place in the literature and can be used to create great recital programs and even competitions pieces.

To begin let us look into the works of Issac Albeniz. WELL, what I really mean is let us look into Iberia by Albeniz. Besides his Iberia there is a Suite Espanola, but thats about it. So, Iberia: it is seperated into 4 books and it has 3 movments in each book. These works are, at times, highly virtuosic (just like the composer played) and have a very distinct sound. In fact, I don't think I could confuse his music with any other composer. You really can't go wrong with any of the books, they surely will give you a new set of pieces to use. They have a hint of liszt and debussy, but for the most part, it sounds like Albeniz. Good stuff!

The next amigo is Enrique. De falla has a rather small output for piano, just like his other compadre Issac. However, he does have one MASSIVE work for piano; Goyescas. Coming in at about an hour, this seven movement work can pass some time. It is based on paintings by Goya. You know, I wonder if they named the food company after him. . .probably not. Take a look at him:


Just like I mentioned in the Rachmaninov post, a picture speaks a thousand words. Go listen to Goyescas.

Last but certainly not least is De Falla. Pronounced Day-Figh-Yah he is . . . the final amigo. I really want to mention his concerto, mainly because its his best work involving piano. He did write Fantasia Bética, but hmm, how should I say this, . . .listen to his concerto. Okay, so Nights in the Gardens of Spain for piano and orchestra. This is one work that comes with a ton of ensemble problems, but IT'S WORTH IT. If you're learing it, stick with it. It deserves more performances and really should be considered a more important work. Here's a video of this:

De Falla's Noches en los Jardines de España
(please click me)

Time for me to go. . .Ciao Ciao!!