Manuel María Ponce Cuéllar, affectionately known as Manuel M. Ponce, stands as a towering figure in Mexican music, celebrated for his role in bridging the gap between classical music and traditional Mexican folklore. Born in 1882, Ponce's musical journey began in his native Mexico, but his education took him to Italy and Germany, where he honed his craft. Recognised early on as a child prodigy, Ponce's compositions are deeply rooted in the harmonies and forms of traditional Mexican songs, making him a pivotal figure in Mexican musical nationalism.
Ponce's legacy is vast and varied, encompassing a wide range of works from popular songs and guitar pieces to orchestral compositions. His guitar sonatas, composed between 1923 and 1929 and dedicated to the legendary Andrés Segovia, are particularly notable and constitute the first collection of their kind. Beyond his compositions, Ponce's work as a music educator and scholar has left an indelible mark on Mexican music, elevating the status of guitar music and preserving the rich tapestry of Mexican musical heritage. His influence extends beyond Mexico, with his pedagogical principles and dedication to music education earning him recognition in the Philippines as well. Ponce's contributions continue to inspire and educate, making him a beloved figure in the world of music.
22,303 Followers
Album Description
2025 Urtext2025 Arturo Nieto Dorantes
Best vinyl LP prices!
Compare reliable providers and find the cheapest option. View the current prices below.
Price unknown - In most cases, this means the album isn't available on LP or is no longer offered on LP by our trusted sellers.
Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Manuel Ponce's musical genius with the release of "Ponce: Complete Piano Works, Vols. 5 & 6" on April 1, 2025, under the esteemed Urtext label. This comprehensive collection spans an impressive 1 hour and 42 minutes, offering a deep dive into the piano compositions of one of Mexico's most celebrated composers.
Arturo Nieto-Dorantes takes the reins as the principal artist, bringing Ponce's intricate and evocative pieces to life on the Steinway Model D piano. The album features a diverse array of works, including the enchanting "Barcarola mexicana 'Xochimilco'," the lyrical "Estrellita 'Metamorfosis de concierto'," and the rhythmic "Rapsodia mexicana No. 1." The "Trozos románticos" series showcases Ponce's romantic sensibilities, while the "Notturno" and "Mazurka" pieces highlight his technical prowess and melodic inventiveness.
This volume is part of an ongoing project to record Ponce's complete piano works, providing a valuable resource for both scholars and enthusiasts of classical music. The album's 20th-century instrumental compositions are meticulously performed, capturing the essence of Ponce's unique style. Whether you're a longtime admirer of Manuel Ponce or a newcomer to his music, this collection offers a captivating exploration of his enduring legacy.