This fascinating collection draws on a virtually unknown set of Brazilian dances for piano published at the end of the 19th century in Rio de Janeiro. These pieces blend the melodic charm & grace of the European polka & other dance forms with the sparkle & syncopation of Afro-Caribbean music. They are also precursors to the Ragtime style that came into vogue with Scott Joplin. The result is a repertoire filled with passion, life, & wit that will appeal to piano students & recitalists.