Transforming Folk and Traditional Sources
Aztec Indian/Chávez

Pre-Conquest melodies and indigenous Indian instruments (rattles and drums) were given new life when Mexican composer Carlos Chávez used them in his Sinfonía india to create a vibrant modern work.


Carlos Chávez
Sinfonía india
Autograph manuscript, 1935
Music Division
By permission of Ana Chávez

   
Photograph of Tenabari (cocoon rattles)
Herbert Weinstock Collection
Music Division