About Oscar Escalada
Oscar Escalada is a highly esteemed Argentine composer, arranger, and conductor, primarily recognized for his significant contributions to Latin American choral music. Born in Buenos Aires in 1945, Escalada's work deeply explores the rich tapestry of South American rhythms and folk traditions, particularly incorporating elements of tango, milonga, and candombe into vibrant choral and instrumental pieces. His dedication to showcasing and developing this unique musical heritage has cemented his place as a pivotal figure in contemporary Latin American music.
- Oscar Escalada was honored by Yale University with one of 300 medals coined for its tercentennial anniversary, recognizing his outstanding achievements in choral music.
- He is a co-founder of the America Cantat Festivals, established in 1992 in Argentina to celebrate and promote Latin American choral music.
- Escalada founded and conducted the Coral del Nuevo Mundo (New World's Chorale), an ensemble that has performed internationally, including at the ACDA Central Division Convention and St. Peter's Basilica in Rome.
- Beyond his choral work, Oscar Escalada is also a respected Professor of Conducting and Composition at the Conservatory of La Plata and a Superior Professor of Guitar.
Performing Oscar Escalada's sheet music offers a rewarding experience for musicians eager to delve into the expressive world of Latin American sounds. His arrangements and compositions, often available for mixed, treble, and women's choirs, as well as for intermediate to advanced guitarists, provide an authentic connection to the vibrant musical culture of Argentina and beyond. Singers and instrumentalists will find his works, which frequently blend folk melodies with sophisticated choral writing, to be engaging and enjoyable, allowing for dynamic and rhythmic performances that captivate audiences.