Choro* is a hugely popular style of music in Brazil. Though it's less known elsewhere, ‘Rodas de Choro’ (Choro Circles) can be found throughout the world. 

 

Emerging in Rio de Janeiro the late 1800s and early 1900s, Choro became hugely popular in the 1920s to 30s. Originally played in the salons and cafes of Rio, often from evening until early morning, musicians gathered around a table with wine and food, simply for the joy of playing music together. It still retains that feeling of ‘jamming’, although there are also touring ensembles who perform in large venues and concert halls.

 

While there are many old favourite tunes that have become standard repertoire, Choro remains a ‘living genre’ with many different composers continuing to write new Choros, which continues today, with a number of Australian compsers represented.

 

Choro is an eclectic mix of jazz, classical and folkloric styles. Its driving rhythmic foundation draws on the African influence that remains so strong in Brazilian culture. Melodies are often rapid, syncopated and complex, requiring virtuosity, but there are also slow songs that melt the heart. Harmonies are often sophisticated, expressive and adventurous, and also grab the heart-strings. Influenced by other Brazilian genres such as Samba and Forró, most tunes are instrumental, though some have vocals. As in Jazz, improvisation is encouraged.

 

The main regular instruments are: 

• Flute

• Seven string Guitar (Sete Chordas)

• Cavaquinho ( a miniature guitar with 4 strings) and

• Pandeiro (a tambourine-like instrument that mimics a drum-kit)

Clarinet, Bandolim (Brazilian mandolin), accordion (sanfona), trumpet, trombone, saxophone, piccolo, violin, piano and various percussion are also used.

 

*Pronounced 'shorroo' to almost rhyme with borrow

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Around The Town and Trenzinho da Montanha albums available at:

cafedochoro.bandcamp.com

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