Meet the Composer: Gabriela Ortiz

BACKGROUND on Gabriela Ortiz

Gabriela Ortiz was born in Mexico City, Mexico. Her parents were musicians who specialized in Latin American folk music. She studied folk music along with traditional Western classical music, moving to Europe for a while to continue her education. Her music combines elements from many genres, including folk, pop, and electronic music. She continues to compose and teach composition in Mexico City.

MUSIC of Gabriela Ortiz

1. Gabriela Ortiz’ music often has a lot of rhythmic energy. To get a sense, listen and watch excerpts from her piece Yanga, for percussion quartet, orchestra and chorus.

2. Gabriela Ortiz composed Kauyumari for a full orchestra. “Kauyumari” means “blue deer” to the Huichol people of Mexico. This animal holds special significance and meaning to the Huichol people. The images that accompany the music in the video below capture some of that cultural influence.

3. Gabriela Ortiz often writes music for large ensemble but she also writes for smaller groups and soloists. Check out this piano piece, “Estudio no. 3.” “Estudio” means study. In music “studies” (also called “etudes” are pieces created to showcase the performer’s technique and skill on the instrument.)

CREATE, CONNECT & RESPOND to Ortiz’s music

1. The last piece in the listening examples above is an “etudio”. An etudio (or “etude” in French, or “study” in English) is a specific kind of composition. Learn more in the Class Notes lesson What is an ETUDE?

2. Gabriela Ortiz’ music was shaped by music around the world, particular music from Mexico, where she was born. Think more about the connection between music and place in the Class Notes lesson Music & Geography: Around the World.