Henrique Alves de Mesquita's composition, “Overture”
The Music of Brazil encompasses various regional music styles influenced by African, European and Amerindian forms. A crucial factor for the changes in the musical life was the arrival of the Portuguese household in Rio de Janeiro, in 1808.
Sunday, July 11, 2010
Important Institutions
Imperial Conservatory of Music, where Henrique Alves de Mesquita was first musically trained.
Famous Composers
Mesquita, Henrique Alves de- (15 March 1836 to 12 July 1906)
Born into a modest household in Rio de Janiero his training was acquired at the Imperial Conservatory of Music. His success in completing a counterpoint course earned him a gold medal when he was 20 years old. After receiving a scholarship to study abroad, Mesquita travelled to Paris to study harmony. In 1869 he became the resident conductor and sometimes composer of pieces for the Teatro Fénix Dramática, a theater specializing in oprettas. In 1891 he was appointed professor of brass instruments at the Instituto Nacional de Música of Brazil.
Discography:
Batuque (1912) - 78 rpm
Batuque (1968) - LP Batuque (1968) - LP
· Os Beijos do Frade (sem data) - LP The Friar's Kisses (undated) - LP
Ali Babá (sem data) - LP Ali Baba (undated) - LP
· Polca de 1867 (sem data) - LP Polka 1867 (undated) - LP
· Batuque (1974) LP Batuque (1974) LP
Alberto Nepomuceno (July 6, 1864 – October 16, 1920 )
Born in Fortaleza, his father was both a chapel-master and musician. He received education at the most prestigious schools,and used his connections to promote the recognition of other formal Brazilian composers throughout Europe. His intense nationalism and passion for Brazilian music compelled him into politics. His works composed for symphony sometimes attempted to incite some feelings present in the everyday Brazilian's life.
Villa-Lobos, Heitor (b Rio de Janeiro, 5 March 1887; d Rio de Janeiro, 17 Nov 1959)
Recognized as the most significant creative figure in 20th century Brazilian art music. Under the strict supervision of his father, he was trained in both the cello and clarinet before his teenage years. Performing in hotels,street venues, and the Odeon Cinema he met some of the most popular musicians of his time including the world-renowned Alberto Nepomuceno. In his later years, he traveled frequently throughout Brazil, having gained more respect and knowledge for Brazilian folk music. As he gained greater understanding of the traditional music Villa-Lobos also honed his guitar skills, an instrument thought to be somewhat taboo in his day. His first compostiions were heavily criticized by some fellow composers that were known to despise modern music.After gaining world-wide recognition for his compositions and performances as a symbol of a newly confident Brazil in the 1920’s he set his sights on improving music education. His work in the school system raised him to the status of an “official” composer. As a result, his music became less eclectic. During the 1940’s and 50’s Villa-Lobos toured throughout Europe, Japan, and the Americas. From his home in Paris he engaged himself in productions at both the Boston Syphony Orchestra as well as the Philedelphia Orcestra. On his 70th birthday a New York Times editorial praised his talent and the Ministry of Education and Culture declared 1957 as “Villa-Lobos” year.
Discography:
Nepomuceno: Piano Works
Composer: Nepomuceno, Alberto
Artist: Guimaraes, Maria Ines
Label: Marco Polo
Genre: Instrumental
Period: 20th Century
Catalog No.: 8.223548
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)