.Composer Miguel del Águila joins us to discuss his interest in rhythm and drama and how his nostalgia for home informs his compositional language. He describes his use of transcription as a means of recasting aspects of the same work in a new light. We chat about the differing experiences of functioning as a freelancer and a university professor. And he shares about the continuing impact of colonialism on music—and how the constantly evolving nature of small ensembles provides opportunities to work through social justice issues that the trust-fund-and-donor-base structure of established orchestras frequently restricts.
Three-time Grammy nominated American composer Miguel del Águila was born in Uruguay. In over 130 works that combine drama, driving rhythms and nostalgic nods to his South American roots, he has established himself among the most distinctive and highly regarded composers of his generation. His music, which enjoys over 200 performances yearly, has been hailed as “brilliant and witty” (New York Times), “sonically dazzling” (LATimes) and “expressive and dramatic” (American Record Guide).
He is 2021 composer in residence with Danish Chamber Players/Ensemble Storstrøm, after residences with Orchestra of the Americas, New Mexico Symph, Fresh Ink, CTSummerfest, Talis, and Chautauqua. 2021 commissions include works for Cuarteto Latinoamericano, Eroica Trio and Fivebyfive.
The transcript for this episode can be found here.
For more information about Miguel del Águila, please visit his website, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, Spotify, Apple Music, and Amazon Music.