Composer

:

Heitor Villa-Lobos

Genre

:

Keyboard

Style

:

Keyboard

Compose Date

:

1918

Average_duration

:

1:32

'A pobrezinha' is a solo piano piece composed by Heitor Villa-Lobos in 1923. It is part of a collection of nine pieces called 'Cirandas', which are based on Brazilian folk songs and dances. The premiere of 'A pobrezinha' took place in Rio de Janeiro in 1924, performed by the composer himself. The piece is in a ternary form, with a slow and melancholic opening section followed by a faster and more rhythmic middle section, and then returning to the initial theme. The left hand plays a simple and repetitive accompaniment, while the right hand carries the melody, which is characterized by a descending motif that creates a sense of sadness and resignation. The piece is marked by Villa-Lobos' characteristic use of Brazilian folk elements, such as the syncopated rhythms and the modal harmonies. However, unlike some of his other works, 'A pobrezinha' is relatively simple and straightforward, with a clear and direct emotional expression. The title of the piece, which means 'the poor little girl', refers to a popular Brazilian song that tells the story of a young girl who is abandoned by her lover and left to suffer alone. Villa-Lobos' version captures the pathos and vulnerability of the original song, while also adding his own personal touch. Overall, 'A pobrezinha' is a beautiful and poignant piece that showcases Villa-Lobos' mastery of both classical and folk music traditions. Its simplicity and emotional depth make it a timeless classic of Brazilian piano music.

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