Clarice Assad

(2023) Baião N’ Blues

Baião N’ Blues

Duration: 9 minutes

Commissioned by KMFA, Classical 89.5 in Austin, Texas, for its 2023 Draylen Mason Composer-in-Residence initiative. 
Premiered September 24, 2023, by the University of Texas Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Douglas Kinney Frost.
Dedicated to Lou Ann and Bill Lasher, and the memory of Draylen Mason (2000-2018).

Program Notes: 

“Baião ‘N’ Blues” is an orchestral composition celebrating the vibrant fusion of two diverse musical worlds. Inspired by Brazilian music’s lively rhythms and infused with the soulful essence of American blues, the piece explores cross-cultural musical influences. Juxtaposing Brazilian themes with bluesy inflections, the composition presents a seamless and delightful blend of harmonious colors. Throughout the orchestral journey, a sense of lightness and humor permeates the musical landscape, inviting the audience to engage in a spirited dialogue. Commissioned by KMFA for the University of Texas Orchestra under conductor Douglas Kinney Frost, “Baião ‘N’ Blues” showcases the power of music to transcend cultural boundaries and connect people through the art of listening.

Instrumentation: 

Flute (2) Oboe (2) Bb Clarinet (2) Bassoon (2)

Horn in F (4) Bb pt (3) Trombone (2) Bass Trombone Tuba

Timpani Percussion  (2)** Piano Strings

Percussion 1:

  • Tubular bells
  • Large Bass Drum
  • Marimba
  • Cabasa
  • Vibraphone (shared with Percussion 2)
  • Agogos
  • Xylophone

Percussion 2:

  • Snare drum
  • Suspended cymbal
  • Sizzle cymbal
  • Crotales
  • Tam Tam
  • Ride cymbal
  • Hi-hat
  • Shaker
  • Caxixi

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