Villa-Lobos: Complete Guitar Manuscripts

Album Description

Dive into the rich and diverse world of Heitor Villa-Lobos with "Villa-Lobos: Complete Guitar Manuscripts," a comprehensive collection that spans over three hours of captivating music. This album, released on November 11, 2016, under the Naxos label, is a treasure trove for classical music enthusiasts, featuring both rare and recently discovered works by the renowned Brazilian composer. The collection includes some pieces long assumed to be lost, offering a unique opportunity to explore Villa-Lobos' extensive and innovative contributions to the neoclassical genre.

The album is meticulously curated and performed by Andrea Bissoli, with support from the Minas Gerais Philharmonic Orchestra under the direction of Fabio Mechetti. Bissoli's arrangements and completions, such as the unfinished "Valsa Concerto No. 2," add a fresh perspective to Villa-Lobos' original compositions. The 49 tracks encompass a wide range of styles and moods, from the intricate "Guitar Concerto, W501" to the lively "Chôros No. 1" and the enchanting "Bachianas Brasileiras No. 5."

"Villa-Lobos: Complete Guitar Manuscripts" is not just an album; it's a journey through the musical genius of Heitor Villa-Lobos. Whether you're a seasoned fan of classical music or a curious newcomer, this collection offers a deep and rewarding exploration of one of the most influential composers of the 20th century. The album's diverse repertoire, spanning from solo guitar pieces to orchestral arrangements, showcases Villa-Lobos' versatility and his enduring impact on the world of music.

November 11, 2016

2016 Naxos

About Heitor Villa-Lobos

Heitor Villa-Lobos, born in Rio de Janeiro in 1887, stands as one of the most celebrated composers from South America, leaving an indelible mark on the 20th-century classical music landscape. A prolific and versatile musician, Villa-Lobos was not only a composer but also a maestro, cellist, pianist, and guitarist. His extensive body of work, comprising over 2,000 compositions, spans orchestral, chamber, instrumental, and vocal genres, all imbued with the rich, vibrant sounds of his native Brazil, including tribal songs, folk dances, and street music. Villa-Lobos' music is a testament to his deep connection with his homeland, often described as "natural, like a waterfall." His unique blend of classical and traditional Brazilian elements has made him the most renowned South American composer of all time, with a legacy that continues to inspire and captivate audiences worldwide.