Role

:

Composer

Country

:

Spain

Birth

:

February 12, 1639 in Tuesta, Spain

Death

:

1710 in Zamora, Spain

 

Juan Garcia de Salazar was a Spanish composer and organist who lived during the Baroque period. He was born in Madrid in 1639, and his family was known for their musical talents. His father, Francisco Garcia de Salazar, was a composer and organist, and his grandfather, Juan Garcia de Basurto, was also a renowned musician. Salazar began his musical education at a young age, studying with his father and grandfather. He showed great promise as a composer and performer, and by the age of 20, he had already been appointed as the organist at the Royal Chapel in Madrid. Salazar's early works were heavily influenced by the music of his predecessors, such as Tomás Luis de Victoria and Francisco Guerrero. However, he soon developed his own unique style, which was characterized by its use of chromaticism and dissonance. One of Salazar's most famous works is his "Missa de Batalla," which was composed in 1670. This piece is notable for its use of military fanfares and drum rolls, which were meant to evoke the sounds of battle. The "Missa de Batalla" was performed at the coronation of King Charles II of Spain in 1675, and it was later published in 1680. Salazar also composed a number of other sacred works, including motets, hymns, and psalms. His "Lamentations for Holy Week" is considered to be one of his most beautiful and moving compositions. This piece is a setting of the biblical text that describes the mourning of the Virgin Mary after the death of her son, Jesus Christ. In addition to his sacred music, Salazar also composed a number of secular works, including villancicos and tonos humanos. These pieces were often performed at courtly events and were meant to entertain the aristocracy. Salazar's music was highly regarded during his lifetime, and he was considered to be one of the most important composers of his time. However, his fame was short-lived, and his music fell into obscurity after his death in 1710. It was not until the 20th century that Salazar's music was rediscovered and brought back into the public eye. Today, his works are performed and recorded by a number of ensembles and soloists, and he is recognized as one of the most important composers of the Spanish Baroque.

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