In the 20th century, there were a couple different types of Mexican nationalism in classical music.
Mexican folk melodies heavily influenced Manuel Ponce and often used them in his music. This is considered a more "traditional" approach to nationalism — one that can be observed in composers like Chopin, Elgar or Copland.
One of Ponce's students, Candelario Huizar, spearheaded a different type of Mexican nationalism by incorporating sounds and melodies from indigenous Mexicans, such as Mayan and Aztec people.
On today's Learning to Listen, hear examples of both styles of Mexican nationalist classical music, and learn a bit more about why Cinco de Mayo is a holiday in the first place.
Playlist
Estrellita / Manuel Ponce / Manuel Barrueco, guitar / EMI 56578
Scherzino mexicano / Ponce / Maneul Barrueco, guitar EMI 56578
Concierto del sur / Ponce / Eduardo Fernandez, guitar / L-D 421108
Imagenes (excerpt) / Candelario Huizar / Sony 75555
Sinfonia India / Carlos Chavez / ASV 866
Sensemaya / Silvestre Revueltas / Naxos 555917
Sobre las olas / Juventino Rosas / Sony 75555
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