The samba-canção “Aquarela do Brasil” and its nationalistic lyrics (see translation below) became so popular that is has served as a second national anthem for Brazilians, as it raises feelings of shared national pride every time it is performed. The song’s long melodic line, wide range, and occasional syncopations (Musical example 6.3) testify to the refined structures of most samba songs, anticipating Bossa Nova (see below). The work continues to spark the interest of musicians from all backgrounds, in Brazil and abroad. 

Form: Strophic with two sections, A and B; at the end of B there is a hook (Brasil, pra mim) that functions as a short refrain

Time Signature: 2/4; the syncopations in the melody can be observed in the Musical Example above

Instrumentation: string orchestra, guitar, percussion, flute, clarinet, piano, saxophone