Suite Brasileiro
Digital Sheet Music

Item Number: 20815118
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Flute,Guitar - Advanced Intermediate - Digital Download

SKU: S0.419627

Composed by Douglas DaSilva. 21st Century,Contemporary Classical,Impressionistic,South American,Recital. Score,Set of Parts. 54 pages. Published by Burke & Bagley (S0.419627).

I composed this suite in five parts in 2006. However, most of the ideas that grew into this Suite Brasileiro were born much earlier.  It was the formulation of the Choro, a piece that let me explore thedecatonic scale (a theoretical concept that I had been working with for sometime) in a more conventional setting, that opened the door to writing a complete suite that explored Brazilian rhythms and music forms. 

2006:  The more I become involved with the music of Brazil, the more I realize that the idea of trying to cover all the uniquely Brazilian styles of music in a single suite is impossible. Samba, Forro, Bossa Nova, Afoxe, Frevo are all common to Brazil.  Yet, in Brazil you are as likely to hear Funk, Heavy Metal, Rap, Samba Reggae and Dance and pop-music almost indistinguishable from what is played on the radio in the United States.  Rather than compose a piece of music that teaches or introduces the listener to the music of Brazil, I decided to take a more personal approach, choosing pieces that have personal meaning to me.

Choro is one of the first pieces that I composed using a decatonic scale system.  Choro is a form of Brazilian music that dates back to the 19th century and goes in and out of popularity over the years.  Traditionally, it has beautiful “classical-European”melodic lines accompanied by Afro-Brazilian rhythms.  I’ve maintained the traditional form AABBACCAwith a slight variation A1A2B1B2A1C1C2A2 hopefully bringing it to the 21st Century.

A Ultima Dança do Imperador (The Emperor’s Last Dance):  In1822, Brazil left the Monarchy of Portugal and declared itself an independent Empire.  The Brazilian Empire lasted until 1889.  It's a bit of a departure from what your average listener will expect from something labeled Brazilian.  However, I like the struggle between the Emperor’s regal theme, presented repeatedly by the guitar and the flute (like constantly reassuring "yes-men") and the Brazilian melodies and rhythms that try to creep in.

Xico was an amazing character who led a fascinating life, from childhood to death.  He was also my father’s friend and was raised as his brother.

Sereste pra Mineira is a serenade for my wife, Aldelira, from the state of Minas Gerias.  


Valsa Paraibana takes the popular Baião rhythm and adds a beat to it.  Why?  Because it sounds good!

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