Role

:

Composer

Birth

:

February 8, 1922

Genre

:

Chamber

 

Manuel Oltra was a Spanish composer and pianist who was born on January 22, 1922, in Valencia, Spain. He was the son of a music teacher and grew up in a musical family. Oltra began his musical studies at a young age, learning to play the piano and the violin. He later studied composition with Vicente Asencio and Joaquín Rodrigo, two of the most prominent Spanish composers of the time. Oltra's early works were heavily influenced by Spanish folk music and the works of his teachers. He quickly gained recognition for his talent and was awarded several prizes for his compositions. In 1947, he won the National Prize for Composition for his work "Cantata de la Paz" (Cantata of Peace). Throughout his career, Oltra composed a wide variety of works, including orchestral pieces, chamber music, choral works, and operas. His music was characterized by its lyricism, rhythmic vitality, and use of Spanish folk elements. One of Oltra's most famous works is his "Concerto for Piano and Orchestra," which was premiered in 1953. The concerto is a virtuosic showcase for the soloist, with intricate piano passages and a lively, rhythmic accompaniment from the orchestra. The work has become a staple of the piano concerto repertoire and is still performed frequently today. Another notable work by Oltra is his opera "El Giravolt de Maig" (The Maypole Dance), which premiered in 1960. The opera is based on a Catalan folk tale and tells the story of a young girl who falls in love with a mysterious stranger. The work is notable for its use of Catalan folk music and its colorful orchestration. In addition to his work as a composer, Oltra was also a respected pianist and conductor. He often performed his own works in concert and was known for his passionate and expressive playing style. Oltra's contributions to Spanish music were recognized with numerous awards and honors throughout his career. In 1982, he was awarded the Gold Medal for Fine Arts by the Spanish government, and in 1992, he was named a member of the Royal Academy of Fine Arts of San Carlos. Manuel Oltra passed away on December 31, 2015, at the age of 93. His legacy as one of Spain's most important composers and musicians lives on through his music, which continues to be performed and celebrated around the world.

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