Suite popular brasileira Opus 6.1 Ney Gabriel Rosauro

für Marimba

This collection of Brazilian dances was written between 1980 and 1982, and these are the first marimba pieces I composed. The work is originally written for solo marimba and was later arranged for percussion ensemble (7-9 players), extending the movements with some written improvisation.

I) BAIÃO Based on mixolydian and lydian modes, the baiao is a very popular and joyful dance from Northeastern Brazil. It is often played at parties called forro (for all). The main instruments in a traditional baiao ensemble include accordion, zabumba (a bass drum-like instrument) and triangle.

II) XOTE Originally from Portugal, the xote has numerous variations in Brazil. This version has a Northeastern groove with a slight reggae feeling.

III) CABOCLINHO One of the few dances originating with the native Brazilian Indians, the melodies are based on the pentatonic scale, and unlike most Brazilian rhythms, it has a strong down-beat feel.

IV) MARACATU One of the most syncopated and beautiful Brazilian rhythms, maracatu comes from the state of Pernambuco in Northeastern Brazil, and is played in a colorful parade by drummers, singers and dancers during carnival time.

Inhalt / Content:

• Baiao
• Xote
• Caboclinhos
• Maracatù