Evencio Castellanos was born in Cua, Venezuela into family of musicians on May 3, 1915. Castellanos was one of the most famous art musicians known by many as nationalistic composer of the twentieth century. His musical career begins with learning instruments. He has learned organ working as his father assistance at music work as organ player in various churches in Caracas and piano lessons from Rafael Gonzalez. He started formal music lesson at the Escuela de Santa Capilla, founded by Vicente Emilio Sojo, Venezuelan music legendary. He also farther studied music in New York at the Dalcroze School of Music.
Castellanos become organist for the Cathedral of Caracas following his father footsteps. After his studies in New York he becomes an active member of the Orquesta Sinfonica de Venzuela, which was cofounded by Sojo and ultimately become vice president of its board of directors. He also created longtime association with the Escuela Superior de Musica taking various roles as instructor, composer, and become its director between 1965 and 1972 eventually. His productive music work believed to be a combination of influences by Sojo’s nationalistic style and his enduring religious background. In addition, he was the founder and director of the Collegium Musicum of Caracas and the orchestra of the Universidad Centra de Venezuela.
Castellanos nationalistic and religious devotions are reflected in songs he composed. For example, one of best known work, Santa Cruz de Pacairigua, pays honor to the construction of church in Guatire, near Caracas. In addition, the El rio de las siete estrellas (The river of the seven stars) album inspired by poem about the Orinco River describes events takes place in Venezuelan history that leads to independence in 1821. The following are list of Castellano’s popular album titles by alphabetical order.
Discography:
Role: Classical Composer
| Album Title | Catalogue
Number |
Work
Category |
| CASTELLANOS, E.: Santa Cruz de Pacairigua/ El rio de las siete estrellas/ Avilena Suite (Venezuela Symphony, J. Wagner)” Naxos catalogue number: 8.572681 under work category- Orchestral (Venezuela Symphony Orchestra). |
Naxos 8.572681 |
Orchestral |
Music of Venezuela 