Cuauhtli, the Aztec Eagle
Luis Obregon
About this work:
As a young boy I remember being fascinated by Aztec art. I would spend many hours neatly copying their art. I was especially fascinated by their simple but yet strikingly powerful lines that interweave images with meaningful patterns that go from simple every day life to a highly complex calendar. In cuauhtli, my intentions were not in creating an archeologically accurate rendition of pre-confluence music, but rather to a sonorous interpretation of the art that as a child I would imitate. Very short and recognizable motives are interweaved in long patterns creating complexly colorful textures. The musical drama inherent in “cuauhtli” depicts a modern-day imaginary journey (or flight) into the mythology of a glorious past of a now mutilated and oppressed culture.
Version: April 19
Year composed: 2008
Duration: 00:10:47
Ensemble type: Orchestra:Standard Orchestra
Instrumentation: 1 Piccolo, 2 Flute, 2 Oboe, 1 English Horn, 2 Clarinet, 1 Bass Clarinet, 2 Bassoon, 1 Contrabassoon, 4 Horn in F, 3 Trumpet, 2 Trombone, 1 Bass Trombone, 1 Tuba, 1 Timpani, 3 Percussion (General), 1 Piano, 2 Violin, 1 Viola, 1 Cello, 1 Double bass, 1 Harp