Types of Brazilian Music

Bright and colorful, Brazil conjures up images of fun and gaiety with fast, pulsating music. Colorful costumes and energetic dance forms give an idea about the importance of music to the people of Brazil. When it comes to music, this is the place to be! The musical culture has spread all across this area which is why, music is the single language that binds souls not only in Brazil, but around the world as well. There are various types of Brazilian music forms witnessed over the years. These genres have many a fan following and continue to inspire people all over. Here's an overview of the various types of Brazilian music.

Types of Brazilian Music

Brazil and the connection with Samba is something lovers of music and dance are all aware about. The origins of this genre of music dates back to the dances of African American origin. Originally a couple dance, Samba is also a dance form that has to be performed to particular beats in a music piece. Samba made its first appearance in the 20th century where it was recognized as a particular kind of music style. This song and dance style is very popular in the carnivals of Brazil. This style of music is played with a bass drum called a surdo. The hand drum is yet another musical instrument that is used in many other types of Brazilian music. This lively and energetic style of music has spread to other areas of the world gradually! The popularity of Samba can be seen even today, particularly in Rio de Janeiro.

With time, another genre of the Samba evolved in Rio de Janeiro. This genre was known as Pagode. Developed in the 1980s, new musical instruments were introduced for creation of these tunes. Many musical groups adapted this style but it also drew criticism for having rather typical beats. The banjo and Repique de Mao were used to create rhythmic beats.

Lundu was a style of music and dance that was first introduced by the slaves. This style had an African American base and sometimes, was even considered indecent. From a group dance, it slowly emerged as a solo dance. After the 18th century, this type of music and dance was mixed with other styles. Even today, this form is very much prevalent in many areas.

Basically, the music styles included the use of instruments such as the tambourine, accordion, pandeiro and the acoustic guitar. These were used in the creation of some of the earliest styles of music in Brazil. Natives in the rainforests had their own ways of creating tunes for entertainment. With the help of reed flutes and whistles, drums and horns, the natives created music that is now known as the folk music of Brazil.

Musicians and composers brought one more style into focus in the 19th century with the Choro. It was popularized amongst people through the medium of radio. This marked it as one of the first and most important forms of music seen in Brazil. Yet another musical form played with the help of zabumba is known as Baião. The Baião formed the base for many other musical tunes. A form more popular with the rural class, the songs basically describe the struggles and problems faced by people. Today, this form is known as the Forro.

The popularity of country music is very much seen in Brazil. The Sertanejo is a form that is based on this genre, with influences from outside.

Over the years, throughout the history of music in Brazil, the popularity of various genres has led to the development of many styles. The popular forms are known as Musica Popular Brasileira. Also known as MPB, this style appealed more to youngsters at large. In the 1970s, Brazilian music also witnessed the emergence of rock. The 1980s witnessed this form gain a strong foothold and soon, punk rock and heavy metal also found acceptance. Bossa Nova is a style that appealed to many and had its base on Samba. Today, all these forms are very much prevalent in Brazil.

Thus, we can see how music and even dance, has influenced the life of the people in Brazil from the early days. The energy and rhythm continues to spread around the world, creating a fan following for Brazilian music!