Roberto Baden Powell
- This is the first article in a new series, featuring guitar greats. Guitarist
composers who’s works have fascinated me over the years. This
week, we will look at Roberto Baden Powell, Brazillian guitarist,
composer, 1937-2000.
The young Roberto began studying guitar at the age of eight, and by
the time he had finished school had worked for Radio Nacional, and
began touring the country, mostly playing in small towns. He became
integrated in the Bossa Nova style, appearing many times on Radio
and TV. A highly versatile performer, his refined technique was
coupled with unique musicality.
As a composer, his many compositions drew from the local rhythym’
s, in particular Bossa Nova, incorporating his songs into the
development of popular music. He was always close to his Brazillian
roots, the music often full of local colour, but also many times
capturing the sadness within the country, which has many contrasts
between the high life wealth, and the shanty town poverty.
Here I am playing Baden Powell’s haunting “Retrato Brazilliano”
(Brazillian Portrait) a beautiful, tragic encapsulation of the composer’
s homeland. Retrato Brazilliano.mp3.
- Here is the softer side of Baden Powell, with the lullaby Acalantos
Das Nonas.
- In this video, Li Jie plays "Simplicitas" by Czech guitarist Jiri Jirmal.
from the Jazz Suite Hommage to Baden Powell. Simplicitas by Jiri
Jimal.
The piece is full of nostalgic yearning, with the middle section a block
chord rythmic form of the main theme. It is this contrast between
rhythmic drive and lament which forms an endearing quality to the
music of Baden Powell, captured so well by Jimal in his composition.
Suggested recordings;
Baden Powell, Guitar music played by Michael Andriacciao.
Frankfurt Opera Concert 1975 by Baden Powell.
Bayden Powell died in 2000. The legacy of his genius is a constant
inspiration to guitarists.
Mark Antony.
- royalty free images from fotosearch.
