Meet the Composer: Carlos Chávez

BACKGROUND

Carlos Chávez was born in 1899 in Mexico City, Mexico. As a child, his family traveled all over the country and he developed an interest in native Mexican cultures. He later became known for using traditional Mexican percussion instruments in his classical compositions.  

Carlos Chávez composed music throughout his entire adult life but he had many other interests. He wrote several books about music and wrote many articles for a newspaper in Mexico City. He was the director of several prominent Mexican orchestras and held several different teaching positions. Carlos Chávez continued to travel internationally for most of his life, acting as an ambassador and advocate for Mexican symphonic music. 

MUSIC

1. Carlos Chávez had a strong interest in the music of various Mexican groups. This piece was written for four wind players and six percussionists. The percussionists play many instruments; many of them are of Aztec origin. The piece itself is based on Aztec mythology. As you listen, notice the ABA form of this piece.  

2. Carlos Chávez was known for extensive use of percussion. This piece is for percussion only! Watch all three movements (or sections) or excerpts to get a sense of his percussive style.  

3. Perhaps his most famous composition, Carlos Chávez’s second symphony is also known as Sinfonía India. The piece is based on three indigenous Mexican melodies. As you listen, see if you notice the three primary melodies. Like so many of his works, Chávez included many indigenous instruments in the percussion sections. Also notice the wide variety of percussion instruments.  

CREATE, CONNECT & RESPOND

1. Carlos Chávez was influenced by the music of native Mexican cultures. Think a little more about how culture influences music in this Music & Geography: Around the World lesson.

2. Carlos Chávez was very deliberate about his use of instruments. Review or learn about instrument families in the What are INSTRUMENT FAMILIES? lesson.