Introduction to Juan Pablo Contreras
Juan Pablo Contreras, a composer from Jalisco, Mexico, is set to present his first symphony, “My Great Dream,” along with some of his orchestral works in Mexico City on August 9 and 10, and in Guadalajara on August 16. Born in Guadalajara in 1987, Contreras has been nominated for the Latin Grammy three times.
The Inspiration Behind “My Great Dream”
“My Great Dream” is Contreras’ first orchestral work, inspired by his personal experience as a migrant. The title is a play on words between “mi gran sueño” (my great dream) and the migratory dream of many Mexicans seeking the American Dream.
Contreras’ Musical Journey
Contreras began his musical career at six, playing the violin. However, his passion for metal music, bands like Black Sabbath, Ozzy Osbourne, Iron Maiden, and later progressive metal like Dream Theater and Symphony X, introduced him to symphonic arrangements and orchestration. He later moved to the United States to study music, attending the University of Southern California, Manhattan School of Music, and the California Institute of the Arts.
“Sueño Americano” and “Heavy Heart”
The main theme of “My Great Dream,” titled “Sueño Americano” (American Dream), was composed when Contreras was 18, reflecting his thoughts of migrating to the U.S. The second movement, “Heavy Heart,” pays homage to heavy metal, the first genre Contreras explored as a performer and composer.
The Migrant Experience in Contreras’ Music
Contreras’ work has explored various elements of Mexican culture, including mariachi (“Mariachitlán”), free wrestling (“Lucha Libre!”), the Sun Pyramid, and Octavio Paz’s “Labyrinth of Solitude.” His symphony integrates influences from American composers with clear messages, moving away from abstract music.
“Dos Patrias” – A Tribute to Dual Nationality
The fourth movement of “My Great Dream,” titled “Dos Patrias” (Two Homelands), is inspired by an annual event on May 25 in the Tijuana-San Diego border where musicians from both sides come together to play and dance fandangos all day. Contreras loves the idea of music erasing borders and uniting his two homelands.
Upcoming Performances
- August 9 and 10: Juan Pablo Contreras will perform “My Great Dream” at the Sala Nezahualcóyotl in Mexico City with the Orquesta Sinfónica de Minería, directed by Carlos Miguel Prieto.
- August 16: Contreras will present five pieces in Guadalajara, Jalisco, including “My Great Dream,” “Mariachitlán,” and the Mexican premieres of “La Silla,” “MeChicano,” and “Alma Monarca” with the Orquesta Latino Mexicana.
Key Questions and Answers
- Who is Juan Pablo Contreras? A composer from Guadalajara, Mexico, nominated for the Latin Grammy three times.
- What inspired “My Great Dream”? Contreras’ personal experience as a migrant and the lack of Mexican cultural elements in classical music.
- What genres does Contreras explore in his music? Mariachi, free wrestling, and progressive metal, integrating symphonic arrangements.
- When and where can you hear “My Great Dream”? August 9-10 in Mexico City and August 16 in Guadalajara, Jalisco.
