The liturgical Mass text of Missa Brasileira by Jean Kleeb is set to typical Brazilian rhythms and styles and builds a bridge between European spiritual choral music and the rhythmic intensity of South America. Renaissance and Early Baroque harmonies blend with the melodies and rhythms of Indian and Afro-Brazilian music. In addition, popular styles such as the bossa nova, samba and baião are incorporated.
This work is readily accessible and the instrumental accompaniment can be easily adapted:
- small group setting: choir, piano, cajón, shaker
- large group setting: piano, bass, drum set and Brazilian percussion
The work is rounded out by the solo soprano and cello.
