Developing Love for Contemporary Music

Throughout my years as a composer, I have traveled a path from disliking most contemporary music, to seeing the unique and infinitely expressive beauty that can be achieved without the bounds of tonality. The Danzas Argentinas are a set of three dances composed by Alberto Ginastera in the 20th century, and the first musical work that opened my eyes to the post tonal realm, specifically the first movement which I have played here. The unique polytonality across both hands comes together perfectly in every way possible, and ultimately creates a unique sound that I absolutely love. While learning this piece for performance, I also learned that playing contemporary music is worlds different than simply hearing it, as you get to submerge yourself in the music itself and truly understand the way it comes together.

Photo: The beautiful streets of Argentina–Ginastera’s inspiration and his cultural home.