Works

Instrumentation (detailed)

Winds and Brass	Piccolo, 2 Flute, Oboe, Bassoon, 3 Clarinet, Bass Clarinet, 2 Alto Saxophone, 1 Baritone Saxophone, 3 Trumpet, 2 Horn, 2 Trombone, 1 Bass Trombone, 1 Euphonium, 1 Tuba
Percussion	Timpani, 4 Percussion, Drums Set, Bass Drum, Glockenspiel, Marimba, Xylophone, Triangle, Tam-Tam
Keyboards	Carillon

Performer(s)

Cantos d’Alquimia – heart of black clay is a sound poem for wind orchestra and choir that pays homage to the parish of Vilar de Nantes and its tradition in the art of black clay ceramics. The piece invites the listener to delve into the mysticism and alchemy that involves the process of transforming clay into art.

The chorus' lyrics invoke the magic of alchemy, transforming clay into treasures and screams into songs. The work resonates like an echo of the past, uniting the voices of the time in a song that celebrates the collective memory of the community.

The piece is not only a tribute, but also an invitation to reflect on the importance of local traditions, cultural memory and the urgency in preparing the future to come. It also serves as a reminder of the urgency for constant transformation in society. Yesterday today and always. May the spirit of Vilar de Nantes live eternally immortalized in this song and in the heart of the land of black clay.

Manuel Brásio

Notes

Work	Type	Date	Organization/Event	Venue	Town	Country	Performers	Notes	Inv Row
Cantos d’Alquimia - coração de barro preto	Premiere	2023/Oct/07	Nove Aldeias, Um Povo	Largo da Feira	Valpaços	Portugal	Banda Musical de Loivos	Notes