On April 5th, 2026, at 4:00 PM, guitarist Álvaro Henrique presents Brazilian Treasures, a recital at Arts on Lafond at Zion Community Commons that reflects his ongoing Doctor of Musical Arts research at the University of Minnesota.
This project investigates Brazilian guitar music beyond the traditional Rio de Janeiro-centered canon, bringing forward a broader and more representative panorama of the country’s musical production. As part of this research, the program highlights composers from diverse cultural, regional, and aesthetic backgrounds, many of whom remain underrepresented in the classical guitar repertoire.
A central milestone of the program is the inclusion of Wawã by Zandhio Huku, recognized as the first solo guitar work by a Brazilian Indigenous composer. This landmark contribution expands not only the repertoire, but also the cultural scope of the instrument.
The recital also features key figures associated with major Brazilian “regional” traditions.
Among them is Mestre Vieira, widely regarded as the most important composer of guitarrada, and Elomar Figueira Mello, whose work represents a deeply rooted musical language connected to the sertão and its cultural identity.
The program includes:
Variations on a Theme by Paulo Andre Tavares – Zilmar Gustavo (b. 1972)
Fé – Luciana Lins (b. 1996)
Duvê Esse Chão Queima Meus Pé – Elomar Figueira Mello (b. 1937)
Wawã – Zandhio Huku (b. 1979)
Para Matar a Saudade de Minas – Ivan Vilela (b. 1962)
La Toqueteada – Thiago Colombo (b. 1980)
Três Irmãos – João Ferreira / Vinícius Vianna
Guitarreiro do Mundo – Mestre Vieira (1934–2018)
Pano de Louça – Paulo Bellinati (b. 1950)
The concert also features guitarist Sara d’Ippolito-Reichert as a guest collaborator.
Through this carefully curated repertoire, Brazilian Treasures presents a multifaceted musical identity, bridging traditions such as viola caipira, regional song, contemporary composition, and popular idioms. Álvaro Henrique’s work as both performer and researcher positions this recital as part of a broader effort to redefine and expand the Brazilian guitar canon.
Event Details
April 5th, 2026 – 4:00 PM
Arts on Lafond at Zion Community Commons
Álvaro Henrique, guitar
More information: alvarohenrique.com
