José Vianna da Motta was a distinguished composer, pianist, and pedagogue, born on April 22, 1868, in São Tomé and Príncipe, then a Portuguese colony. He was recognized as one of the most illustrious Portuguese musicians of his time. His prodigious talent for the piano led him to study in Berlin under the tutelage of the esteemed composer and pianist Franz Liszt, one of the most significant figures of the Romantic era. Vianna da Motta's career blossomed in mainland Europe, where he built a reputation as a concert pianist while also teaching at the Geneva Conservatory and the Hochschule für Musik in Berlin.

Vianna da Motta's compositions reflect a deep connection to his Portuguese heritage, evident in his use of folkloric elements and nationalist themes. His oeuvre includes works across various genres, from solo piano pieces to large symphonic compositions. Notable among them are the "Piano Concertos" and "Symphony à Pátria," which evoke the rich cultural tapestry and history of Portugal. Throughout his life, da Motta championed Portuguese music and strove to cultivate a rich musical environment in his home country. He passed away on June 1, 1948, in Lisbon, but his legacy endures through his compositions and the students he inspired. His body of work continues to be celebrated and discovered by new generations of classical music enthusiasts.

Genres

Portuguese Classical

Post-romantic Era

Latest Release

Vianna da Motta: Piano Music

José Vianna da Motta

Album - 10 Tracks - Released July 6, 2018