José Antônio de Almeida Prado was one of the most prolific and creative Brazilian composers of the second half of the 20th century, finding inspiration in everything from the birdsong and forests of his native country to a contemplation of the galaxies. The evocative Le Livre magique de Xangô is considered a foundational work in Almeida Prado’s final, eclectic postmodern phase, during which folk music also re-emerged in works such as Das Cirandas. The lively Solo Violin Sonata and lyrical Capriccio both explore the violin’s full expressive potential, while The Four Seasons tests the skill of younger players.

‘The Music of Brazil’ series presents around 100 orchestral, chamber, choral and vocal works from the 19th and 20th centuries recorded by the country’s top orchestras, ensembles and artists, and selected according to their historical importance for Brazilian music.

Almeida Prado is already represented with two titles in this acclaimed and highly collectable series, with his Sinfonia dos orixás (8574411) considered ‘one of the most interesting and culturally important releases ever put on the market’ in The Art Music Lounge. His First Piano Concerto (8574225) was an American Record Guide Critic’s Choice and admired in BBC Music Magazine: ‘This collection of works for piano and orchestra showcases the composer’s startling musical imagination and is performed with mastery and poise by Brazilian pianist Sonia Rubinsky and the Minas Gerais Philharmonic Orchestra’.