A study in contrasts takes place at the Botanic Gardens when Brazil and Singapore intertwine in song. By S. Sakthivel
Besides the tropical weather, there’s not that much in common between Singapore and Brazil.
Brazil is known for its samba, football, nature, carnivals, beaches, changing government and free spiritedness that help define the country.
Singapore tends to be at the other end of the spectrum.
So, it may seem an unlikely combination of factors that would bring Taiana Froes and Benjamin Boo together. Froes is an exultant Brazilian soprano who revels in her country’s historical music. Boo is a focused rising force in the local music scene.
The two will take to the stage for PianoBotanica at the Singapore Botanic Gardens on 11 September; a celebration of contrasts and friendship.
Despite their differences, Froes and Boo believe that working together affords them an opportunity to not only explore their own musical horizons but also open their music to new audiences.
Froes says that the musical selection, featuring songs by famous Brazilian composers such as Heitor Villa-Lobos, Carlos Gomes and Chiquinha Gonzaga, also borrows heavily from folk songs based on the myths and legends of Brazil. While the stories may be hundreds of years old, Froes believes that they play an integral role in teaching new generations about the history and culture of Brazil.
Perhaps, in time, Singapore will have such stories to tell.
Froes and Boo tell us more.
PianoBotanica 2016
Sunday, 11 September 2016
6pm – 7pm
Shaw Foundation Symphony Stage, Singapore Botanic Gardens
Free Entry
www.pianobotanica.com
