He died long ago – in 1883 – but is still deeply respected and remembered by his people. Manuel Gregorio Tavarez up to date presents an endless inspiration source for new music generations of Puerto Rico. Though not completely a Puerto Rican (his father was French and his mother from Puerto Rico), Tavarez grew up a very talented and patriotic boy who became a zealous pianist at an early age. The French roots helped a lot too as after studies in San Juan he was granted a scholarship for courses at the Music Conservatory of Paris. Despite the health problems Manuel returned to his homeland and sat down to work on his masterpieces.
Manuel Gregorio Tavarez is mostly renowned for splendor in the so-called genre of “danzas” - short piano pieces that were flourishing during his lifetime. Tavarez even received the title of “Father of the Puerto Rican Danzas” and critics say that his music style can easily be compared with that of the famous Polish colleague’s – Frederick Chopin. Among the greatest works are such danzas as Rendencion, La Sensitiva, Un Recuerdo. But his biggest pieces in many sense is of course the passionate Margarita. If composers were to give out business cards – Margarita would surely be the one for Tavarez. Here’s a transcription for advanced intermediate piano for those who like some challenge in a piece of classics.
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