Births on January 25

Juventino Rosas

Born on January 25, 1868

Juventino Rosas, Mexican violinist and composer (d. 1894)

José Juventino Policarpo Rosas Cadenas (born January 25, 1868, in Santa Cruz, Guanajuato, Mexico – died July 9, 1894, in Surgidero de Batabanó, Cuba) was an exceptionally talented Mexican composer and violinist whose short but impactful life left an indelible mark on classical and popular music. Despite passing away at the young age of 26, Rosas achieved international recognition, primarily remembered for his enchanting waltz, Sobre las Olas (Over the Waves).

Early Life and Musical Beginnings

Born into a musical family, Juventino Rosas was the son of José de Jesús Rosas, a skilled harpist and band leader. This early exposure to music profoundly influenced him, and he began his musical journey at a very tender age, quickly demonstrating prodigious talent on instruments like the violin and harp. By his early teens, he was already performing professionally with his father's band, which often played at local festivals and celebrations. Although he briefly attended the National Conservatory of Music in Mexico City, financial constraints unfortunately forced him to withdraw, highlighting the challenges faced by many aspiring artists of his era. Despite this setback, Rosas was largely self-taught, refining his skills through persistent practice and performance.

A Legacy in Melody: "Sobre las Olas" and Other Works

Juventino Rosas's most famous composition, the waltz Sobre las Olas, was published in 1888 and quickly gained immense popularity worldwide. Often mistaken for a European composition, particularly one by Johann Strauss II due to its sophisticated structure and sweeping melodic lines, its true Mexican origin cemented Rosas's place in music history. This piece exemplifies his mastery of composition, blending a classical European waltz form with a distinctly Latin American sensibility, making it a staple in dance halls and concert venues globally. Beyond this iconic waltz, Rosas composed numerous other works, including polkas, mazurkas, and marches, many of which showcased his versatility and melodic genius. Notable examples include the waltz Carmen, dedicated to Carmen Romero Rubio, the wife of then-President Porfirio Díaz, and Flores de México.

Final Years and Enduring Impact

Rosas's promising career was tragically cut short. While on a musical tour in Cuba, performing with an opera company, he contracted typhus fever and passed away on July 9, 1894. His remains were initially interred in Cuba but were later repatriated to Mexico in 1909, finding their final resting place in the Rotonda de las Personas Ilustres (Rotunda of Illustrious Persons) in Mexico City, a testament to his national importance. Despite his untimely death, Juventino Rosas's contributions to Mexican music are invaluable. His compositions continue to be performed and cherished, not only for their inherent beauty but also for representing a significant period in Mexico's musical development. His life story, marked by talent, struggle, and eventual triumph through his music, continues to inspire generations of musicians and listeners.

Frequently Asked Questions About Juventino Rosas

When was Juventino Rosas born and when did he die?: Juventino Rosas was born on January 25, 1868, and passed away on July 9, 1894. He lived for only 26 years.
What is Juventino Rosas most famous for?: He is most famous for composing the iconic waltz Sobre las Olas (Over the Waves), which achieved international acclaim and is often mistakenly attributed to European composers like Johann Strauss II.
What instruments did Juventino Rosas play?: Juventino Rosas was primarily known as a violinist, but he also played the harp and other instruments from a young age.
Where was Juventino Rosas born?: He was born in Santa Cruz, Guanajuato, Mexico. This town was later renamed Santa Cruz de Juventino Rosas in his honor.
How did Juventino Rosas die?: He died of typhus fever in Surgidero de Batabanó, Cuba, while on a musical tour.
What is the significance of "Sobre las Olas" in music history?: Sobre las Olas is significant as a masterpiece of the waltz genre that brought international recognition to a Mexican composer. It remains one of the most beloved and frequently performed waltzes worldwide, bridging classical elegance with a unique cultural flair.

References

Juventino Rosas

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Events on 1868

24 Feb

Impeachment of Andrew Johnson
Andrew Johnson becomes the first President of the United States to be impeached by the United States House of Representatives. He is later acquitted in the Senate.
10 Apr

British Expedition to Abyssinia
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16 May

Impeachment of Andrew Johnson
United States President Andrew Johnson is acquitted in his impeachment trial by one vote in the United States Senate.
25 Sep

Grand Duke Alexei Alexandrovich of Russia
The Imperial Russian steam frigate Alexander Nevsky is shipwrecked off Jutland while carrying Grand Duke Alexei of Russia.
27 Nov

Battle of Washita River
American Indian Wars: Battle of Washita River: United States Army Lieutenant Colonel George Armstrong Custer leads an attack on Cheyenne living on reservation land.