Last year, Chacon made history as the first Native American to win a Pulitzer Prize for music. Growing up on the Navajo reservation in Arizona, Chacon was deeply influenced by his grandfather, a traditional Navajo singer, and a wide range of musical genres including radio music, country, and heavy metal.
Chacon’s musical journey began with piano lessons in his childhood. After his family moved to New Mexico, he expanded his musical repertoire to include guitar and electronics. Currently residing in New York with his wife, Candace Hopkins, who runs the Forge Project, Chacon has honed his skills at the prestigious California Institute of the Arts, studying under renowned musicians such as Morton Subotnik, Michael Pizarro, James Tenney, and Wadada Leo Smith.
Known for his unique blend of noise music and references to traditional indigenous music of the American Southwest, Chacon’s solo concerts are often conceptual performances that intertwine electroacoustics and collage music with sociopolitical themes conveyed through voice recordings.
Spatiality and the physical arrangement of musicians play a significant role in many of Chacon’s compositions. One notable work, “Voiceless Mass,” written for a large ensemble, earned him the Pulitzer Prize. The piece premiered at St. John’s Cathedral in Milwaukee but can be performed in any temple. Interestingly, despite being composed for a Thanksgiving concert, “Voiceless Mass” does not feature a single singing voice, symbolizing the often overlooked Native American community.
Another composition expected to be showcased at the “Skaņu mežs” festival is Chacon’s string quartet, “Journey of the Horizontal People.” Originally written for the “Kronos Quartet” ensemble, Chacon hopes that musicians from diverse age groups and social backgrounds will eventually include it in their repertoire. The ensemble “Mivos Quartet” will perform this piece at the festival, consisting of violinists Olivia De Prato and Maya Benardo, violist Victor Lowry Tafoia, and cellist Tyler J. Borden. The quartet has previously collaborated with pop musician Sol Williams and musicians from the “Forest of Sounds” project, including Nate Wooley, George Lewis, and Patrick Higgins from the group “Zs.”
The “Skaņu mežs” festival will take place from October 6 to 8, featuring Chacon’s solo performance and the “Mivos” quartet concert on October 7. Additionally, the festival will offer a composer’s master class at the Jāzeps Vītolas Latvian Academy of Music. “Skaņu meža” master classes are scheduled for September 29, as well as October 5 and 6.
Chacon’s groundbreaking achievements and innovative compositions continue to captivate audiences, showcasing the rich diversity and talent within the Native American music community.
How has Raven Chacon’s work at prestigious venues and festivals around the world contributed to redefining the boundaries of music and sound?
O work has been performed at prestigious venues and festivals around the world. He has collaborated with renowned musicians and artists, pushing the boundaries of music and sound.
Chacon’s compositions often explore themes of identity, Native American history, and the intersection of his cultural heritage with contemporary society. His work is characterized by its experimental nature, incorporating elements of improvisation, electronic manipulation, and unconventional instruments.
In addition to his solo work, Chacon has also composed for ensembles and multimedia performances. His music combines traditional Indigenous sounds with contemporary techniques, creating a powerful and thought-provoking experience for audiences.
As the first Native American to win a Pulitzer Prize for music, Chacon’s achievement has brought much-needed recognition to Indigenous voices in the arts. His groundbreaking work challenges stereotypes and highlights the richness and complexity of Native American culture.
Chacon continues to be a driving force in the contemporary music scene, pushing boundaries and creating innovative compositions. His impact goes beyond the world of music, inspiring and empowering Native American artists and creators across disciplines.
Through his music, Chacon is able to express the beauty and resilience of his heritage while pushing the boundaries of what is possible in the realm of contemporary music. His unique perspective and innovative approach have earned him critical acclaim and solidified his place as an important voice in the modern music landscape.
“Raven Chacon’s first solo concert and quartet performance at the Skaņu mežs Festival was a true testament to his exceptional musical talent and the richness of Native American culture. A well-deserved honor for this brilliant Pulitzer Prize winner.”