Fernando Lopes Graça: Clepsidra, as 8 Mãos e os Frutos, 3 Canções de Fernando Pessoa

Album Description

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Fernando Lopes-Graça with his captivating choral album, "Clepsidra, as 8 Mãos e os Frutos, 3 Canções de Fernando Pessoa." Released in 2009 under the TRADISOM label, this album is a testament to Lopes-Graça's mastery of choral composition, featuring a diverse array of 24 tracks that span a total of 72 minutes.

This album is a collaborative effort, showcasing the talents of soprano Ana Maria Pinto, pianist Nuno Vieira de Almeida, and João Rodrigues. The collection is divided into three distinct sections, each dedicated to a different poet: Camilo Pessanha, Eugénio de Andrade, and Fernando Pessoa. The first section, "Clepsidra," consists of eight poems by Pessanha, while the second section, "As Mãos e os Frutos," is a setting of poems by Andrade. The final section features three songs based on the poetry of Fernando Pessoa.

Fernando Lopes-Graça's unique approach to choral composition is evident throughout the album. His innovative use of harmony, rhythm, and texture creates a rich and immersive listening experience. The album's themes range from love and longing to the passage of time and the beauty of nature, offering a deep and introspective exploration of the human condition.

Whether you're a fan of choral music or simply appreciate beautiful and thought-provoking compositions, "Clepsidra, as 8 Mãos e os Frutos, 3 Canções de Fernando Pessoa" is sure to captivate and inspire.

5 juli 2009

2009 Tradisom

About Fernando Lopes-Graça

Fernando Lopes-Graça, born in 1906 in Tomar, Portugal, was a towering figure in 20th-century Portuguese music, renowned for his compositions, conducting, and musicological work. His deep connection to Portuguese folk music, which he studied extensively, is a hallmark of his diverse and innovative compositions. Lopes-Graça's political convictions as a member of the Portuguese Communist Party and his opposition to the repressive Estado Novo regime shaped his artistic journey, imbuing his music with a sense of resistance and social consciousness. After beginning his musical education in Tomar, he honed his skills at the Lisbon Conservatory, studying under notable figures such as Adriano Merêa, Tomás Borba, and Luís de Freitas Branco. His prolific output spans various genres, including choral works and folk song arrangements, reflecting his deep engagement with Portugal's musical heritage and his pioneering spirit in exploring post-tonal languages. Lopes-Graça's legacy endures as one of Portugal's most influential and beloved composers, celebrated for his unique voice and unwavering commitment to artistic integrity.