Ponce: The Paris Years

Album Description

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Manuel Ponce's "Ponce: The Paris Years," a captivating collection of guitar compositions that showcase the composer's time in Paris between 1926 and 1932. This album, released on May 22, 2020, by Christophorus, is a testament to Ponce's mastery of the guitar, featuring a diverse range of pieces that highlight his technical prowess and artistic sensitivity.

The album opens with the "Sonatina Meridional," a three-movement work that exudes a warm, southern charm. Following this, the "Thème, varié et finale" offers a series of variations on a theme, each one more engaging than the last. The "8 Preludes" provide a delightful interlude, showcasing Ponce's ability to convey a wealth of emotion in a short span of time. The "Guitar Sonata No. 3" is a standout piece, with its lyrical "Chanson" movement and the lively "Allegro non troppo."

The album culminates in the "Variations sur 'La folia de espana' et fugue," a tour-de-force that demonstrates Ponce's compositional skill and his deep understanding of the guitar. This piece alone is worth the price of admission, with its intricate variations and thrilling fugue.

Tilman Hoppstock's performances are nothing short of outstanding, bringing a fresh perspective to these well-loved pieces. His technical precision and musical insight make this album a joy to listen to from start to finish. Whether you're a seasoned guitar aficionado or a newcomer to the instrument, "Ponce: The Paris Years" is sure to captivate and inspire.

May 22, 2020

2020 Christophorus

About Manuel Ponce

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.