A fascinating program of original works for piano duet by 5 Portuguese composers: Viana da Mota (1868-1948), Lopes-Graça (1906-1994), De Almeida (b.1957), Lapa (b.1950) and Azevedo (b.1968).

The origin of the National Style of Portugal is traced back to José Viana da Mota, a pupil of Liszt at Weimar,who upon his return to his native Portugal founded the National School. His pupil Fernando Lopes-Graça infused the German Romantic style of his master with folkloristic features, using popular themes and colouristic effects. This new style found its way in the works of the other composers on this disc, who all share a common heritage and language.

Played with great dedication and feeling for the language by the Portuguese piano duo Luís Duarte and Lígia Madeira.