The Kingdoms of Castile: El Mundo, with Jennifer Ellis Kampani, Soprano

Throughout the 17th and 18th centuries, the Spanish colonies of Central and South America were well-springs of cultural sophistication. Latin American cathedrals and courtly life demanded a varied and active musical scene.

Often, the indigenous populations were drawn into the arts and participated in their production. The musical result was a style that even in sacred compositions bears the imprint of folk music. The use of guitars and percussion, coupled with dance rhythms and the occasional use of native languages, demonstrate a close relationship between European and Indigenous cultures.

For this program, El Mundo will perform a selection of music from Spain and the viceroyalties of Naples, Peru and New Spain (Mexico/Guatemala). The composers will include: Roque Ceruti, José de Orejón y Aparicio, Santiago de Murcia, Rafael Antonio Castellanos and Manuel Quiroz.