Classical Music | Piano Music

Heitor Villa-Lobos

Alma brasileira  Play

Victor Cayres Piano

Recorded on 08/03/2016, uploaded on 03/14/2017

Musician's or Publisher's Notes

Heitor Villa-Lobos, one of the strongest advocates for nationalism in music, explored the keyboard in imaginative and unprecedented ways in Brazil, combining tradition with irreverence. Alma Brasileira (‘Brazilian Soul’) and Impressões Seresteiras (‘Evening Impressions’ or ‘Serenader’s Impressions’) were both inspired by Chorões, Brazilian street musicians who performed music of a melancholic nature with influences from native Indians, folklore, and African dances. Composed in 1925 and 1936, respectively, both works have a rhapsodic design with luscious harmonies and broad use of the keyboard, presenting a recurring nostalgic tune interrupted by two vibrant, lyrical, dramatic, and exuberant dance episodes. The final piece, O Polichinelo (‘The Punch’), was often played by Arthur Rubinstein, who greatly admired Villa Lobos.  O Polichinelo, inspired by the mischievous Pulcinella from 17th century Comedia dell’Arte, utilizes a simple children’s folk tune embellished by an energetic and insolent accompaniment.         Victor Cayres

More music by Heitor Villa-Lobos

Heitor Villa-Lobos
Prelude No 1
Heitor Villa-Lobos
Song of the Black Swan
Heitor Villa-Lobos
Animé, from Fantasia
Heitor Villa-Lobos
Etude No 1
Heitor Villa-Lobos
Trio No. 1 in c minor
Heitor Villa-Lobos
"Polichinelle"
Heitor Villa-Lobos
Impressoes Seresteiras

Performances by same musician(s)

Béla Bartók
Three Burlesques, Op. 8c
Domenico Scarlatti
Sonata in b minor, K. 27
Domenico Scarlatti
Sonata in D minor, K. 32
Heitor Villa-Lobos
Impressoes Seresteiras
Heitor Villa-Lobos
O Polichinelo

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