Alberto Violeta Parra Sandoval
- Born:
- October 4, 1917, San Fabián de Alico, Chile
- Died:
- February 5, 1967, La Reina, Santiago, Chile
- Nationality:
- Chilean
- Profession(s):
- Folk Singer, Songwriter, Poet, Visual Artist (Ceramics, Painting, Sculpture, Tapestry), Ethnomusicologist
Early Life and Education
- Born into a family of musicians and teachers.
- Experienced poverty during childhood, influencing her artistic themes.
- Largely self-taught in music and visual arts.
Career and Major Achievements
- Pioneered the Nueva Canción Chilena (New Chilean Song) movement.
- Extensive research and collection of Chilean folk music.
- Traveled throughout Chile recording and documenting traditional music and culture.
- Hosted the radio program "Singulares del Folklore" dedicated to Chilean folklore.
- Exhibited her visual artwork (paintings, tapestries, sculptures) internationally, including at the Louvre Museum.
- Founded the "La Carpa de la Reina," a cultural center in Santiago.
Notable Works
Discography
| Title | Year |
|---|---|
| Violeta Parra Canta a Violeta Parra | 1956 |
| Acompañada de Guitarra | 1958 |
| Toda Violeta Parra | 1961 |
| Recordando a Chile (Una Chilena en París) | 1965 |
| Las Últimas Composiciones de Violeta Parra | 1966 |
Songs
- Gracias a la Vida
- Volver a los 17
- Run Run se Fue Pa'l Norte
- Arauco Tiene una Pena
- La Jardinera
Film
While primarily known for her music and visual arts, Violeta Parra's life was the subject of the biographical film Violeta Went to Heaven (Violeta se fue a los cielos), released in 2011.
Legacy and Impact
Violeta Parra remains one of the most important figures in Chilean culture. Her songs are anthems of social justice and national identity. Her visual art and ethnomusicological work have preserved and promoted Chilean folklore. The ongoing study of alberto violeta parra biography highlights her significant influence on Latin American music and art.