The Adventurer - Ensemble for Clarinet Choir

The Adventurer - Ensemble for Clarinet Choir: Eb Requinto Clarinet, 3 Bb Soprano Clarinets, Eb Alto Clarinet, Bb Bass Clarinet and Bb Contrabass Clarinet

In April 2022, this new official definitive version of composition No. 07 “The Adventurer”, an ensemble for clarinet choir, was released.

This update was made possible thanks to the valuable feedback provided by teachers, colleagues, students and the general public, who requested the incorporation of new themes and a longer duration of the work to meet the demand for a more complete listening experience.

The highlights and significant aspects of this new version lie in the incorporation of new unpublished themes, such as two choruses, a trio and an extended montuno in the form of improvisation. This last element was fundamental to develop, expand and venture again into the work. Through it, he was able to capture the cycles of his life and transport the past into the present. Likewise, an explicit and coherent ending was incorporated to ensure that the listener unequivocally understands the conclusion of the work. This contrasts with the previous version, which left some ambiguity about whether the piece continued or had come to an end.

In addition to the new themes, improvements were made to existing ones by expanding some phrases and motifs and adding bridges to facilitate joining and repetition, and changes were also introduced in the counterpoints and harmonies in specific phrases.

In his work “El Aventurero”, the Mexican composer shares his personal story through the different stages he has experienced throughout his life. Originally from the community of Tlahuitoltepec Mixe, Oaxaca, the author grew up speaking the Mixe language and was immersed in the traditions, uses and customs of a community rich in culture. From an early age, he was exposed to philharmonic bands with repertoires of sones and jarabes.

At the age of ten, he had his first approach to music through lessons given by his father. Later, he continued his learning in a self-taught manner and joined the town's municipal band. As time went by, the municipal band, now known as BASTLAM, reached its full potential in the 1990s. It was then that musical tours began and the author had the opportunity to visit the cities of Oaxaca, Mexico and Veracruz. He was impressed by the beauty of the big cities and their different traditions, but above all by their rich musical culture.

Later, he moved to Mexico City to reside there temporarily. His musical travels continued through almost all the states of the Mexican Republic. During these trips, he acquired valuable experiences and knowledge, marveling at the magnificence of the different cultures, traditions and musical styles of each state.

In conclusion: “El Aventurero” is a fascinating work in which the Mexican composer tells his personal story through the different stages of his life. From his origins in the community of Tlahuitoltepec Mixe, Oaxaca, to his musical travels throughout the Mexican Republic, the author has had the opportunity to experience and learn from the rich cultures and traditions of his country. His passion for music has taken him to unforgettable places and experiences, and this work is a moving testimony to his journey. The new version of “El Aventurero” represents an enriching evolution of the original work. Thanks to the incorporation of new themes and developments, it invites the listener to immerse themselves in an exciting musical journey. The suggestions and comments received allowed this composition to be improved and expanded to offer a unique experience.