Secular vocal music in Salvador in the 18th and 19th centuries: Circulation, changes and permanence

Abstract

This article examines the transformations in the lyrical scene in Bahia during the 19th century. A noticeable shift from the Italian scenic model to others of foreign origin (French, Spanish or German) can be observed in the works of Barbosa de Araújo (1778-1856), Souza Negrão (17??-1817) and Mussurunga (1807- 1856), among others. Operatic productions shared local stages with benefit con- certs and other forms of spoken and musical theatre, while 18th-century Portuguese models and practices - including cantatas, arias and recitatives - remained in use in Bahia, with minor vernacular adaptations, throughout the 19th century, evidencing different levels of continuities, adaptations and/or receptions.