César Guerra-Peixe

César Guerra-Peixe was a major figure in 20th century Brazilian musical life, active as a composer, violinist, conductor, and researcher. He also composed for and produced radio broadcasts and documentaries and wrote the scores for many films. Guerra-Peixe became interested in new developments in European music after moving to Rio de Janeiro, and in 1939, he and a group of other composers formed a new ensemble, Música Viva. After studies with Hans Joachim Koellreutter, Guerra-Peixe rejected nationalist styles and began to write in a serialist idiom. Later, however, he began to draw once again on Brazilian folk music for inspiration. His book Os Maracatus do Recife ("The Maracatu of Recife") is an important ethnomusicological text. Guerra-Peixe remained active until the end of his life and was a significant mentor for younger composers. He died in Rio de Janeiro on November 26, 1993.