Piano works by Latin American women composers born between 1850 and 1950: an anthology and recording

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Abstract

The works and knowledge of predigital age Latin American women composers are rapidly disappearing. Only a few such women were able to overcome the regional societal norms and actively compose music. Unfortunately, their contributions are moving into obscurity in part due to the lack of exposure and limited cultural preservation programs in many countries. This dissertation strives to uncover and highlight a collection of at-risk compositions by Latin American women born between 1850 and 1950. Throughout this work, important information on five such composers has been documented by providing a short paper, an anthology, and recordings of some of their most relevant compositions. These materials demonstrate the composers’ distinctive usage of mixtures of Native American, African, and European features that have always been a part of Latin American music traditions, while also heavily borrowing nationalistic features from their countries. The composers merge these elements with characteristics from folk, Indigenous, and Western music practices, building a truly unique style that is worth preserving. By shedding light on these remarkable composers, more pianists will become aware of these works and other compositions increasing their prominence within recitals and concerts. In this manner the contributions of these previously forgotten artists will continue to be enjoyed by generations to come.