An Analysis of the Use of Tuba in Selected Works by Silvestre Revueltas

This document seeks to shed light on the function of the tuba in some of Silvestre Revueltas’ most famous works. Analysis will cover both orchestral and chamber music genres. While the focus will largely be on the tuba parts, there will also be analysis of major themes and motifs represented in other instruments in each work to better provide a clearer overall context for the piece. Inspirations for the works as well as general background information will be discussed. Compositional techniques examined include diverse instrument pairings, the tuba as an independent solo voice, and the tuba as an harmonic and rhythmic foundation. The pieces that will be analyzed are Janitzio, Sensemaya, Redes, Ventanas, and Homenaje a Federico Garcia Lorca.