“The pianist Joao Paulo Santos and I have performed the three sonatas recorded on this CD many times in concert.

“In our view, they are masterpieces of the literature for these two instruments, and, two in particular, those by Freitas Branco and Villa-Lobos, are still little known by music lovers. This seems strange, since the works reflect the incontestable talent of two major composers, one Portuguese, the other Brazilian, who were, in their time, masters of their art.

“We hope that the interpretations presented here will contribute to greater appreciation for these works.”

- Bruno Monteiro

Bruno Monteiro is variously described as: “one of Portugal's premier violinists” (Publico Magazine); having a “burnished golden tone” (Fanfare Magazine); the Strad characterises his playing as “ardent and heroic” and finally, Gramophone praises his “unfailing assurance and eloquence”.

Born in Lisbon in 1959, the pianist João Paulo Santos is a graduate of the Lisbon National Conservatory.

Reviews

An explosion of joy, infectious, and frothy; a jazz-based imagination of the highest order. Colin Clarke

Fanfare

Bruno Monteiro is an admirable artist, a truly fine violinist, and he is superbly partnered here by João Paulo Santos. The booklet notes and presentation are immaculate: this disc is strongly recommended. Robert Matthew-Walker

Musical Opinion

Passionately-entertaining and original musical, lovingly presented in a powerfully successful reading from both performers. Philip R Buttall

MusicWeb International

Monteiro plays throughout with a lovely sweet toned line, but with no lack of virtuosity when required. He and Paulo Santos clearly love this repertoire and the two make this into a highly satisfying recital. Robert Hugill (10/10)

Planet Hugill