Pianist Paulo Braga — with a solid trajectory in Brazilian instrumental music and a notable three-decade partnership with the São Paulo avant-garde scene — presents his latest solo work: Chiaroscuro. The album explores the intimacy of the piano in a profound dialogue with the works of composer Arrigo Barnabé. Holding a doctorate from the University of Campinas (UNICAMP) and an experienced chamber musician, Braga reveals in this project all his expertise as a performer and researcher, solidified through performances with ensembles such as the São Paulo State Jazz Symphony Orchestra and the Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra.

With a career that balances performance, research, and cultural management, Paulo Braga approaches Barnabé’s repertoire with a rare balance of technical rigor and artistic sensitivity. Each waltz was selected not only for its melodic beauty but also for its ability to evoke unique narratives and atmospheres, even without the original lyrics. His long-standing collaboration with the composer himself reflects a constant pursuit of delving into the sonic possibilities of an open and original body of work. In Chiaroscuro, this research reaches a new level, with interpretations that reveal both his technical mastery and an intimate connection with the essence of each composition.

Recorded in discrete immersive 5.0.4 high-resolution audio by ADS engineer Gustavo Cândido, the album invites the listener to a unique sensory experience where the nuances of the piano gain depth and detail. The choice of the solo format highlights the pianistic architecture of the waltzes — many originally conceived for the instrument — allowing Barnabé’s rich harmonic language and intricate melodies to be appreciated in their instrumental purity. The captured sound enhances the play of light and shadow that defines the character of these pieces and gives the project its name.

In Braga’s words: “This album is the materialization of a dialogue spanning over 35 years with Arrigo’s genius. By bringing these waltzes to the solo piano, I invite the listener to create their own imagery and narratives, experiencing the strength and lyricism of this music beyond words. It is an honor to share my personal reading of this repertoire that I so deeply admire.”

Chiaroscuro, available in high-resolution formats in Immersive, Surround, Stereo and Dolby Atmos, represents a unique contribution to the discography of Brazilian piano music, offering a fresh perspective on the work of one of the most original composers of his generation.

Paulo Braga – piano