The music of Brazil has undergone a tremendous transformation over the course of time. This brand new album Soul of Brazil showcases the work of three different eras of Brazilian composers from Rio de Janeiro, each of whom represents a unique style and period in the history of Brazilian music.

Jobim was a pioneer of the bossa nova sound, while Villa Lobos was a key figure in the development of choro music. Clarice Assad is a contemporary composer who brings a fresh perspective to Brazilian music. Taken together, these three composers provide a glimpse into the vast and ever-changing landscape of Brazilian music.

The musicians of Delgani String Quartet are violinists Anthea Kreston and Jannie Wei, violist Kimberlee Uwate, and cellist Eric Alterman. They have performed throughout the United States and internationally. Collectively they hold twelve degrees in performance from various schools of music and conservatories across the nation.

1. Estrada do sol
2. Chovendo na roseir
3. Quebra-pedra
4. Retrato em branco e preto
5. Glitch
6. String Quartet No.6 W.399
7. Cair da tarde W.544

Hailed as Oregon’s “finest chamber ensemble” (ArtsWatch) the Delgani String Quartet’s latest recording opens on the strident fare of Estrada do sol and then brings us the fervently shimmering, at times ethereal Chovendo na roseir and then we get brought forth the impassioned, free flowingly atmospheric Quebra-pedra.

Soul of Brazil, which epitomizes the adventurous, vibrant and passionate qualities of the South American country, blending classical and popular styles seamlessly, continues onward with the aching yearn found within Retrato em branco e preto, the album rounding out on the veritably cinematic Glitch, the delightfully flirtatious String Quartet No.6 W.399, closing on the dulcetly succulent Cair da tarde W.544.

www.clariceassad.com

www.delgani.org