Gonzaga, "Selected Short Pieces" for viola and piano DIGITAL DOWNLOAD
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Brazilian composer Francisca Edwiges Neves “Chiquinha” Gonzaga (1847-1935) lived an extraordinary life. Raised in gentility, at age 16 she was married to a man eight years her senior who hated music. Four years and three children later, her husband demanded that she choose between him and her music. She replied, “Well, sir, my husband, I do not understand life without harmony” and asked him for a divorce.
Gonzaga eked out a living as a pianist and composer, embraced by the demi-monde and Rio. She left over 300 compositions, including operettas, piano pieces and songs. Her music was influenced not only by her classical training, but also by the popular music around her and African influences from the slaves brought to Brazil. Gonzaga was an avid abolitionist and crusader. and is venerated in Brazil still.
The three pieces in this collection (Menina Faceira, Cananéa, and Gaúcho) were arranged from the piano originals. Each has a distinct character, and all share a Latin flair. The viola parts are intermediate level, 1st-5th position, with some double stops. There are some tweaks from the violin version for balance reasons. Videos (of the violin version) below!