Alvira: Cancion callada for oboe, bassoon and piano

Code: JP5106
ISMN: 979-0-3019-0358-2

Cancion callada was composed in 2004 for oboe, bassoon and piano. It was transcribed in 2013 by the composer for an alternate instrumentation of soprano and baritone saxophones with piano following a request from saxophonist Wilfredo Corps.

Cancion callada is a short piece that begins with an 8-bar introduction that presents the melodic material that will later be developed. Its character and form are typical of a song as the word cancion (song) suggests. The word callada - which can be translated as quiet, but also as silent - may be enigmatic because of the explosive central section. This may be explained as a reaction to a "forced silence," another meaning of callada.

The melodic character of the piece has been subtly influenced by jazz and popular songs. Caribbean rhythms, like the clave and the montuno, as well as traditional techniques such as the canon and contrapuntal imitation are also used.

Cancion callada was premiered on October 10, 2004 at the Conservatory of Music of Puerto Rico and later recorded by Camerata Caribe, to whom it is dedicated.

The haunting, and beautiful, melodies and harmonies in this work will be a instant hit. Although the technique is not demanding, extreme sensitivity with tone and dymanics is required. Duration: 5.25 minutes.

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