The fusion of Spanish, Taíno, and African influences over centuries has given rise to a unique Boricua music expression, and the classic genre is no exception. From the solemn chants of the 16th-century cathedrals to the grand orchestras that echo today, the Island’s classical music is a harmonious blend of cultural influences and artistic evolution. Discover the Island's rich legacy of classical musicians who have left their mark both locally and worldwide.

Puerto Rican Cuatro

The cuatro is a musical instrument native to Puerto Rico and is considered a national symbol.

A Symphonic History: How Classical Music Grew in Puerto Rico

With the Spanish colonial era in full swing, European musical traditions came to the Island. From the 16th up until the mid-19th century, religious music, particularly liturgical chants and hymns, formed the earliest expressions of classical music on the Island. These melodies, brought over by Spanish clergy, resonated within the walls of churches and cathedrals, serving as one of the first places people became acquainted with classical instruments and techniques.

It was during the 19th century that Puerto Rico's growing interest in secular classical music really began to take hold. Inspired by European trends, more groups began to embrace opera, like Antonio Paoli, salon music, and orchestral works. This enthusiasm led to a growing class of classically trained musicians. Composers like Juan Morel Campos emerged, blending European compositional techniques with local influences, creating a unique Puerto Rican classical sound.

A Legacy is Made: Pablo Casals

The 20th century fostered many talented musicians, like Jack Delano and Luis Antonio Ramírez, who became important mid-century figures. However, there’s one individual whose name is synonymous with Puerto Rican classical music and whose legacy cannot be overstated—cellist, composer, and conductor Pablo Casals.

Casals was born in Spain to a Catalan father and a Puerto Rican-born mother. He began studying music at the age of 11 in the Escola Municipal de Música in Barcelona, setting him on the course to become a true virtuoso. During his long and illustrious career, he learned from some of the greats throughout Europe, playing for presidents and queens in prestigious venues like Carnegie Hall. He even won a Presidential Medal of Freedom in 1963!

Despite his globe-trotting career, he never lost his connections to the Island, visiting often during 1955 and 1956. He moved to Puerto Rico in 1957, establishing the now-famous Festival Casals. His work didn’t stop there—he founded the Puerto Rico Symphony Orchestra in 1958 and the Conservatory of Music of Puerto Rico in 1959. He remained an integral contributor until his death in 1973, and his legacy continues on the Island.

A small string quartet playing in a intimate gathering.

Puerto Rico's music always has a distinctive Boricua flair.

More Popular Puerto Rican Composers

Since the mid-19th century, Puerto Rico has seen incredible composers who’ve shaped the sound and style of classical music on the Island. Some of the most popular during the 1800s include:

  • Felipe Gutiérrez Espinosa
  • Manuel Gregorio Tavárez
  • Arístides Chavier
  • Julio C. Arteaga
  • Braulio Dueño Colón

With inspiration from these greats, the first half of the 20th century saw many talented musicians, including the incomparable Pablo Casals. Other popular composers during this period include:

  • José Ignacio Quintón
  • Monsita Ferrer, 
  • José Enrique Pedreira
  • Amaury Veray
  • Héctor Campos Parsi
A group of young musicians playing classical instruments in San Juan, Puerto Rico

The Island's musical talent starts young, with various specialized musical schools, choirs, and orchestras.

Festival Casals: The Island’s Iconic Classical Music Event 

Celebrated for the first time on April 22nd, 1957, in the theatre of the Universidad de Puerto Rico, Río Piedras, the Festival Casals marked the beginning of a beautiful and long-standing tradition on the Island. The show, now held in the Centro de Bellas Artes Luis A. Ferré, is a week-long event hosting concerts with the Puerto Rico Symphony Orchestra, international musicians, and students from various musical schools. It’s beloved the world over and a must-see for anyone who likes classical music. 

Explore our guide to music festivals in Puerto Rico

Other Classical Music Events in Puerto Rico

Beyond the Casals Festival, Puerto Rico hosts other annual events that celebrate classical music. The Puerto Rico Symphonic Orchestra has an extensive seasonal event calendar. Chances are that something will be playing during your time on the Island! Additionally, different music schools like the Conservatory of Music of Puerto Rico, the Escuela Libre de Música Ernesto Ramos Antonini in Mayagüez and San Juan, Escuela Libre de Música Antonio S. Paoli in Caguas, and others regularly host concerts to showcase their talented students.

The UPR Tuna, a folkloric musical group, playing at an outdoor event.

There are many classical musical bands, like the famed Tuna of the University of Puerto Rico.

Life After Casals: Late 20th Century and Beyond

​Classical music in Puerto Rico experienced significant growth due to the contributions of institutions such as the Puerto Rico Symphony Orchestra and the Conservatory of Puerto Rico, as well as influential figures like Pablo Casals. During Casals's era, notable composers like Rafael Aponte-Ledée and Luis Manuel Álvarez emerged, introducing contemporary languages and avant-garde techniques to the Island's classical music scene. From the 1970s and onwards, multiple musicians and composers came to prominence, like: 

  • Ernesto Cordero
  • Carlos Alberto Vázquez
  • Alfonso Fuentes
  • Raymond Torres-Santos
  • Alberto Rodríguez
  • William Ortiz-Alvarado
  • José Javier Peña Aguayo
  • Carlos Carrillo
  •  Roberto Sierra

These talented musicians brought a unique blend of international sounds, enhancing the diversity of the Island’s music. Thanks to the tireless efforts of Boricua artists, Puerto Rico’s classical music continues to evolve, flourish, and be a great source of pride!

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