Aniceto Ortega

Full biography Aniceto Ortega

Aniceto Ortega del Villar (1825-1875) was a Mexican physician , composer, and pianist. He is known for his contributions to Mexican classical music in the mid-nineteenth century. Ortega studied music at the conservatory in Mexico City under the guidance of composer Melesio Morales, who was one of the most important figures in Mexican music during his time.

Ortega's most famous work is the opera, "Guatimotzin," which he composed in 1871. The opera tells the story of the last Aztec ruler, who valiantly fought against Spanish colonialism and was ultimately defeated after much struggle. The work was one of the earliest Mexican operas to incorporate a native subject , and also displays aspects of Aztec culture in its music.

Aside from his work in composition, Ortega was also a physician who wrote a treatise on the treatment of gunshot wounds. He was also a patriotic activist, who supported Mexican independence and wrote the verse drama, "Mexico libre" in praise of the country's liberation.

Ortega was a member of the Sociedad Filarmónica Mexicana, a musical association that promoted classical music in Mexico. He collaborated with other members of the association, including composer Felipe Villanueva and musicologist Vicente T. Mendoza.

Overall, Aniceto Ortega was an important figure in Mexican classical music during the mid-nineteenth century, and his compositions continue to be celebrated today.