Rhythm of Light

Feb 22, 2022 | PDF, Rhythm of Light

Rhythm of Light – Analysis

This song, Rhythm of Light, was originally a ballad, but for this project it has been reinterpreted in a choro version. This Brazilian style is usually written in 2/4 and has a melancholic character, and since 1920 has been used very frequently in jazz improvisation.

Originally the choro was performed on a cavaquinho (a Brazilian acoustic guitar) and a pandeiro.

My composition is arranged for a gorgeous string quartet, flute, tuba, piano, double bass, drums, percussion, vocals, trombone etc…

The piece starts with a piano and pandeiro intro.

The theme follows at letters A & B, where the drums, with mixed beaters (brush and stick) accompany the first choro rhythm. Two measures before letter C, the groove changes to afoxê, bringing with it a completely new color. After this section, the groove returns to its original feel, before dying out and leaving space to a solo performance from the string quartet (letters F & G).

The drums restart at letter G with the ride cymbal, before continuing at H with a basic even eighths groove (with kick drum, snare and hi-hat). This section is a good example of when to play a simple groove because the music requires it.

The trumpet solo, which begins at letter H, is accompanied at letter J by a choro rhythm on snare and kick drum, before handing over to the return of the second part of the theme, with an afoxê rhythm. The piece continues at letters P & Q, where the exposition of the theme ends in a gentle, relaxed manner. The coda sees the trumpet make a brief reappearance (letter R), whilst the rhythm section plays a double time, relatively gentle samba.

This short section is resolved with a surprise finale, with a samba marcha groove that provides an elegant end to the piece.

This piece is dedicated to hope, which gives us light and breathes life into our relationships with ourselves and with others.