An Analysis and Performance Editions of Five Puerto Rican Danzas for String Quartet

• Main Author: Moore, José Leonardi
• Other Authors: Buchholz, Theodore O.
• Language: en_US
• Published: The University of Arizona. 2015
• Subjects: Music
• Online Access: http://hdl.handle.net/10150/594371

This document examines the history and characteristics of the danza in Puerto Rico, offering a brief historical description from its evolution in the mid-nineteenth century to the present day. This document also outlines the form of this genre to educate the reader on the different elements and sections included in these pieces. Five works from this genre are included, and newly edited versions are provided with fingering, bowing, and articulation suggestions. These works are intended for intermediate and advanced string players. The Royal Conservatory of Music's grade-by-grade rubric is used to classify these pieces by level. Two of these danzas are classified as Intermediate and three are classified as Advanced, based on the techniques required to play these pieces. Information about some of the most important chamber music ensembles in Puerto Rico, and a brief explanation of rhythm and performance approach, are included to offer a better idea of how to perform these pieces. The "elasticity of triplets," which is the basic rhythmic figure used in these danzas, is explained in detail to help the string players understand the performance practice used while performing these pieces. An entire section is dedicated to the composers and arrangers, with biographical information, as well as information about their compositions. A detailed explanation of suggested fingerings, bowings, and articulations is provided. Original parts and new, digitized versions of these arrangements are also included. The result of this research shows that these pieces are a valuable addition to the string quartet repertoire. The appealing melodies, in conjunction with the technical challenges, will help students achieve a great level of performance without exceeding their technical abilities.