‘Almeida Prado is an extraordinary figure in Brazilian music who built on his significant European background as a pupil of Boulanger and Messiaen in Paris. He developed a distinctive style that combines European elements, particularly French Impressionism, with the diverse influences that make up the true Brazilian musical DNA.
In this mixed programme, the two more extensive pieces (Le Livre magique de Xangô and the Solo Violin Sonata) are true masterpieces that deserve a place in the main repertoire of any musician.’
– Emmanuele Baldini
José Antônio de ALMEIDA PRADO (1943–2010)
Works for Violin and Cello
Emmanuele Baldini, Violin • Rafael Cesario, CelloJosé Antônio de Almeida Prado was one of the most prolific and creative Brazilian composers of the second half of the 20th century, finding inspiration in everything from the birdsong and forests of his native country to a contemplation of the galaxies. The evocative Le Livre magique de Xangô is considered a foundational work in Almeida Prado’s final, eclectic postmodern phase, during which folk music also re-emerged in works such as Das Cirandas. The lively Solo Violin Sonata and lyrical Capriccio both explore the violin’s full expressive potential, while The Four Seasons tests the skill of younger players.
VII. Rituel
Complete Violin Sonatas
Baldini • Rossi
– BBC Music Magazine
Piano Concerto No. 1
Aurora • Concerto Fribourgeois
Rubinsky
Minas Gerais Philharmonic Orchestra • Mechetti
– BBC Music Magazine ★★★★
Fantasias Sul América
Sonata for Solo Violin
Soloists of the São Paulo Symphony Orchestra
– Gramophone
Cello Concertos Nos. 1 and 2
Fantasia for Cello and Orchestra
Meneses
São Paulo Symphony Orchestra • Karabtchevsky
– Pizzicato ★★★★★