what are some of the essential, cultural, and musical elements as well as any socio-historical circumstances that have shaped the formation of Brazilian music culture from the colonial period to the modern, early 20the century era.

Midterm Part 1

Pick one piece from any of the playlists streaming so far and write a brief explanation regarding its position within the timeline of Brazilian music’s development.  

Research and comment on where it and its composer/performer may fit in the greater historical context at the time of its composition or recording, as well as the musical era, genre, ensemble type, arrangement, geographic region, or any particular style it represents. This profile should not merely be a biography but illuminate aspects of the artist’s overall musical personality and creative activity, i.e. include references to his/her/their performances and/or compositions and where such activities fit on the timeline of Brazilian music’s trajectory.

Explore and explain any structural traits in the music that catch your attention, especially if they might be relevant to your overall discussion.

Rather than focus on biography, explore the music. For more details, read the file How to Write a Better Essay, topics 5 and 6. Make sure to state clearly which recording you used in your essay. Make sure to list all composers and lyricists, and talk about them as well as the interpreter (if different than the composer).

Guidelines:

• Overall length should be 1 ½ to 2 pages with a minimum of 500 words (title font 16, text font 12, 1.5 spacing, not including any notation samples or bibliography).

  
  

  Part 2

  Referencing and/or citing at least two articles/book chapter excerpts from the posted weekly PDF reading assignment resources or the textbook, write a brief summary (around 2 pages) of what  are some of the essential, cultural, and musical elements as well as any socio-historical circumstances that have shaped the formation of Brazilian music culture from the colonial period to the modern, early 20the century era. If possible, discuss a couple of specific examples of a musical genre or style created in this process, and how they may have contributed to the foundation of a national Brazilian cultural identity, especially as expressed by evolving popular music trends.

  Guidelines:

  • Overall length should be 3 to 5 pages with a minimum of 1000 words (title font 16, text font 12, 1.5 spacing, not including any notation samples or bibliography).