Composer

:

William Grant Still

Genre

:

Chamber

Style

:

Chamber Music

Compose Date

:

1946

Publication Date

:

1947

First Performance

:

Mar 14, 1947

Average_duration

:

8:35

"Pastorela" is a composition by William Grant Still, an American composer known for his contributions to classical music and his efforts to promote African American musicians. The piece was composed in 1939 and premiered on December 17 of the same year in Los Angeles, California. "Pastorela" is a suite of five movements that draws inspiration from the traditional Mexican Christmas play of the same name. The play tells the story of the shepherds who were visited by the angels and guided to the birthplace of Jesus. Still's composition captures the spirit of the play through its use of folk melodies, rhythms, and instrumentation. The first movement, "El Rorro," is a lullaby that features a solo flute and a harp. The melody is based on a Mexican folk song and is meant to evoke the peacefulness of the night when the shepherds were visited by the angels. The second movement, "Los Pastores," is a lively dance that features a brass section and percussion. The rhythm is based on the huapango, a traditional Mexican dance, and is meant to represent the joy and excitement of the shepherds as they journey to Bethlehem. The third movement, "El Desfile," is a processional that features a solo trumpet and a snare drum. The melody is based on a Mexican hymn and is meant to evoke the solemnity of the shepherds' journey. The fourth movement, "La Fiesta," is a festive dance that features a woodwind section and percussion. The rhythm is based on the jarabe, a traditional Mexican dance, and is meant to represent the celebration that takes place when the shepherds arrive at the birthplace of Jesus. The final movement, "La Estrella," is a hymn that features a solo soprano and a string section. The melody is based on a Mexican Christmas carol and is meant to evoke the wonder and awe of the shepherds as they witness the star that guides them to Jesus. Overall, "Pastorela" is a vibrant and colorful composition that showcases Still's ability to blend traditional folk music with classical forms. The piece is a testament to the rich cultural heritage of Mexico and the enduring power of the Christmas story.

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