The creation of Bossa Nova began around the middle of the 20th century, and was a result of essentially three elements: Samba, which had recently replaced Chôro as the dominant Brazilian musical form, affirming the African influence in Brazilian music; Cool Jazz, made very popular in the United States at that time by musicians and singers like Miles Davis, Sarah Vaughn, and Nat "King" Cole; and 19th century European classical music, particularly that of composers Debussy and Chopin, which had become very popular in Brazil since the invention of the phonograph. These three elements respectively contributed to the rhythmic, harmonic, and melodic qualities of Bossa Nova, this "new style" of Brazilian music, which started to take form with performers like Johnny Alf, Dick Farney (anglicized names), and, most profoundly, João Gilberto, who introduced a new guitar technique which would be emulated by dozens of guitarists in the years to come.
In a movement headed by undoubtedly its most prolific composer, Antonio Carlos Jobim, Bossa Nova took Brazil by storm in the early 1960's with hits like Chega de Saudade, Desafinado (track one), and Garota de Ipanema. Many Jazz musicians in the United States, including saxophonist Stan Getz and guitarist Charlie Byrd, were in turn highly influenced by Bossa Nova during the 1960's. Performers like Frank Sinatra and Sammy Davis Jr. sang amidst very elaborate ensembles to huge audiences, taking Bossa Nova to a place which would undoubtedly have been completely foreign to many of its earliest composers, accustomed to exploring and creating this music in a very intimate setting, most often in trios or quartets in countless living rooms of private homes around Rio de Janeiro During the 1950's.
During the last few decades Bossa Nova has seen some hard times, often marginalized by many unsuspecting listeners as mere elevator music. Recently, however, with the rise in popularity of other Latin musical forms, it has been experiencing a growing audience, appreciative of its innovation and uniquely relaxing dynamism.
Trio Da Viola focuses on restoring the original character of Bossa Nova, a very intimate and rewarding musical experience, complete with its momentary shifts from simplicity to complexity, harmonic tension to aurally blissful resolution.

To hire the trio for any occasion or for more information call or write:

Robert Everest
3731 21st Avenue South
Minneapolis, MN 55407
(612) 724-7347
robertinhodaviola@yahoo.com.br

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