Lopez-Graça: Complete Music for String Quartet and Piano, Vol. 1

Album Description

Immerse yourself in the rich, intricate compositions of Fernando Lopes-Graça with the release of "Lopez-Graça: Complete Music for String Quartet and Piano, Vol. 1." This captivating album, released on May 6, 2014, under the Toccata Classics label, offers a profound exploration of Lopes-Graça's choral works, spanning a total of 54 minutes. The album features a blend of string quartets and suites, each piece meticulously crafted to showcase the artist's unique musical vision.

The album opens with "O Canto Amor e de Morte," setting the stage for the five movements of the String Quartet No. 1, each offering a distinct emotional and musical landscape. From the moderate allegro of the first movement to the playful "Giocoso" and the somber "Epilogo - Adagio," Lopes-Graça's mastery of the string quartet is evident. The Suite Rustica No. 2 follows, with its five movements ranging from the melancholic to the lively, providing a diverse and engaging listening experience.

Performed by the Quarteto Lopes-Graça, this album is a testament to the ensemble's skill and dedication to bringing Lopes-Graça's compositions to life. Whether you're a longtime fan of Fernando Lopes-Graça or a newcomer to his work, this album is a must-listen, offering a deep dive into the artist's contributions to the choral genre.

May 6, 2014

2014 Toccata Classics

About Fernando Lopes-Graça

Fernando Lopes-Graça, born in Tomar, Portugal, in 1906, was a towering figure in 20th-century Portuguese music, renowned for his work as a composer, conductor, and musicologist. His compositions, deeply rooted in Portuguese folk traditions, earned him comparisons to Béla Bartók for their innovative use of native songs and rhythms. Lopes-Graça's political convictions, as a member of the Portuguese Communist Party, often found expression in his music, which served as a powerful critique of the oppressive Estado Novo regime. His seminal work, the "Dicionário de Música," stands as a testament to his scholarly pursuits and his enduring impact on Portuguese musical culture. With a discography that includes iconic works like "Canções Heróicas," Lopes-Graça's music continues to captivate audiences with its rich, evocative soundscapes and profound emotional depth. His legacy endures, inspiring new generations of musicians and music lovers alike.