Joaquim dos Santos - composer torrent

Portuguese composer from Cabeceiras de Basto (Braga, Portugal), 1936-2008, studied under Manuel de Faria before becoming a priest himself and furthering his musical training at the Braga Music Conservatory and, between 1963 and 1966, at the Pontifical Institute of Sacred Music (Roman Curia, Vatican). Earned a prize in 1965 for his compositions, which were premièred at the time. Graduated also in direction and polyphony interpretation at the Saint Cecilia Conservatory, Rome. Influences include Stravinsky, whom he met, Petrassi and Britten.

Retreated to Portugal, leading a humble life of pastoral service, music teaching and composition. Among others, his production include -
Choral symphonic works: Passio et mors D. N. Jesu Christi secundum Lucam, Stabat Mater, Te Deum, cantatas.
Chamber works, some with the use of unusual instruments such as marimba, mandolin or bandolocelo.
Choral works: folk song settings, liturgical texts, some of big proportions and with high descriptive power and bold solutions.

(the text above is adapted from a text by João Duque in Concerto di Sant'Antonio - 2003, Istituto Portoghese S. Antonio in Roma)

In his final years his music has gained public proeminence through the support of the Portuguese Institute of Saint Anthony in Rome. All the present recordings date from this period.