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- Title
MÚSICA RELIGIOSA NO BRASIL COLONIAL.
- Authors
Monteiro, Donald Bueno
- Abstract
This article calls attention to the existence of meaningful artistic manifestations in colonial Brazil, particularly in religious circles. This is true not only of sculpture, but of music as well, both at the mass and also in processions and religious festivities. In time, this material was abandoned and forgotten. However, starting in the 1940s research has shown a rich variety of pieces and information about their production. Initially, the author sketches the main contours of colonial religiosity and some of its characteristic traits: the constant presence of the religious element; abundance of superstitions and syncretistic practices; emphasis on external and monumental aspects; dissociation between religious practice and moral rectitude. Then, he describes the musical activities and their producers, highlighting the types of composition and the occasions in which they were utilized. He stresses the wealth and diversity of the musical production, especially in more prosperous centers, and provides information about some representative composers who worked in different areas of the colony (Pernambuco, Minas Gerais, São Paulo, and Rio de Janeiro). In conclusion, the author provides a critical reflection both from a musical and a functional perspective. In his opinion, colonial sacred music had good qualities. However, as far as its impact on formal worship and popular piety is concerned, he concludes that it contributed towards the preservation of the people's religious identity, but did not promote greater spiritual maturity. He acknowledges the need for a more accurate investigation of the repercussion of this music on the religious experience of the Brazilian people.
- Subjects
BRAZIL; SACRED music; COMPOSERS; PIETY; RELIGIOUSNESS; BRAZILIANS
- Publication
Fides Reformata, 2009, Vol 14, Issue 1, p75
- ISSN
1517-5863
- Publication type
Article