Role

:

Composer Conductor  

Country

:

Cuba

Genre

:

Choral

 

 

Vocal

 

José María Vitier is a Cuban composer and pianist who has made significant contributions to the world of classical music. Born on December 24, 1954, in Havana, Cuba, Vitier grew up in a family of musicians. His father, José Vitier Sr., was a composer and pianist, and his mother, Saida Zequeira, was a singer. Vitier's grandfather, Ernesto Lecuona, was also a renowned composer and pianist. Vitier began his musical education at a young age, studying piano with his father. He later attended the National School of Art in Havana, where he studied composition with Harold Gramatges and piano with Frank Fernández. After completing his studies, Vitier began working as a composer and pianist, performing in concerts and composing music for film, television, and theater. One of Vitier's most significant works is his soundtrack for the film "Strawberry and Chocolate," which was directed by Tomás Gutiérrez Alea and Juan Carlos Tabío. The film, which tells the story of a gay man and his friendship with a young communist, was a critical and commercial success, and Vitier's music played a significant role in its success. The soundtrack features a mix of classical and popular music, including Vitier's own compositions, and has become one of the most beloved film scores in Cuban history. In addition to his work in film, Vitier has composed numerous works for the concert hall, including symphonies, chamber music, and solo piano pieces. His music is characterized by its lyrical melodies, rich harmonies, and incorporation of Cuban folk music and rhythms. Vitier has also collaborated with many other artists, including the poet José Martí, the singer Silvio Rodríguez, and the dancer Alicia Alonso. One of Vitier's most famous works is his "Suite Cubana," which was composed in 1986. The suite is a collection of six pieces for solo piano, each of which is based on a different Cuban dance or rhythm. The pieces are titled "Danzón," "Son," "Guajira," "Bolero," "Mambo," and "Chachachá," and each one captures the essence of its respective dance style. The "Suite Cubana" has become one of Vitier's most popular works and is frequently performed by pianists around the world. Another notable work by Vitier is his "Misa Cubana," which was composed in 1996. The piece is a setting of the Catholic Mass, but it incorporates elements of Cuban folk music and rhythms. The "Misa Cubana" has been performed in churches and concert halls around the world and has been praised for its unique blend of sacred and secular music. Vitier's music has been recognized with numerous awards and honors, including the National Music Award of Cuba and the Order of Arts and Letters from the French government. He has also been invited to perform and lecture at universities and music festivals around the world. In addition to his work as a composer, Vitier is also a respected pianist and has recorded several albums of his own music as well as the music of other composers. His recordings include "Homenaje a Ernesto Lecuona," a tribute to his grandfather, and "Canciones del Buen Amor," a collection of songs based on the poetry of Spanish mystics. Throughout his career, José María Vitier has remained committed to the idea of music as a means of cultural expression and communication. His music reflects his deep love for his Cuban heritage and his belief in the power of music to bring people together.

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