Villa-Lobos came to occupy a leading position in the musical life of his native Brazil, a country the varying musical traditions of which he absorbed as a young man by extensive and adventurous travel throughout the region. After a period in Paris, he returned home in 1930, eventually winning official recognition and making a significant contribution to Brazilian music education. His varied compositions include stage-works, choral and instrumental compositions, chamber music, songs and piano music. His instrumental works include a series of Bachianas brasileiras and Chôros, the latter called after the traditional street-music of Rio de Janeiro.
Guitar Music
The Etudes and Preludes written by Villa-Lobos for solo guitar are a familiar part of the repertoire of that instrument.
