I present to you an album that includes piano pieces by Henrique Alves de Mesquita, one of the most important Brazilian composers of the Romantic period. The disc is part of the project The Music of Brazil, which aims to promote the creations of Brazilian composers who have been active over the past three centuries. More than 100 orchestral and chamber works will be recorded within this collection, many of the selected pieces being released on disc for the first time.

This album, featuring works by Henrique Alves de Mesquita, was recorded by Brazilian pianist Maria Teresa Madeira, and was released on January 30th by the Naxos record label.

Henrique Alves de Mesquita - Brazilian composer, conductor, teacher, trumpet player, and organist - lived between 1830 and 1906. He was influenced by French opera, Italian music, as well as the folklore of his own country. He composed in a variety of styles and genres - lyrical works, sacred compositions, stage music, and instrumental miniatures. He began his musical studies in Rio de Janeiro, then refined his training at the Paris Conservatory, and upon returning to Brazil, he incorporated Western European musical style into his work. In 1872, he was appointed organist of St. Peter's Church and professor at the Rio de Janeiro Conservatory, being known as one of the most prolific composers in Brazil. However, few of his scores are well known today. Therefore, the album recorded by pianist Maria Teresa Madeira also has significant documentary value. The pieces selected by the musician (tangos, polkas, suites, and quadrilles) date from the period following the composer's studies in Paris, when he had gained experience and reached artistic maturity.

Pianist Maria Teresa Madeira studied at the University of Iowa and at the School of Music of the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, where she is currently a professor. The artist has an extensive concert activity, also gives masterclasses in Brazil and the United States, and has a substantial discography, with over 30 recorded albums to date, some of which have received important awards in Brazil.