Majestic Christ the Redeemer statue overlooking Rio de Janeiro at sunset. Iconic Brazilian landmark with stunning sunset backdrop.

UNITY IN DIVERSITY
Harmony of Cultures

Brazil

Carinhoso photograph by Jose Bezerra for classical guitarist Sam Desmet

Photography
by José Bezerra 

  • Title background picture: Christ the Redeemer was completed in 1931 (Located atop Mount Corcovado in Rio de Janeiro). Designed by Brazilian engineer Heitor da Silva Costa and sculpted by Paul Landowski, the statue stands 38 meters tall with an arm span of 28 meters. Overlooking the city, it symbolizes peace and unity, making it one of Brazil’s most iconic landmarks.

Brazil’s culture is a dynamic blend of indigenous, Portuguese, African, and immigrant influences. Known for its lively music, such as samba and bossa nova, colorful festivals like Carnival, and rich traditions in dance, art, and cuisine, Brazil’s cultural diversity reflects its history of multicultural exchange. This vibrant spirit is celebrated across the nation, from bustling cities to rural communities, making Brazil a unique tapestry of heritage and creativity.

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ARTIST INTERVIEW : José Bezerra

Self-portrait of Brazilian photographer Jose Bezerra

José Bezerra, photographer

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MUSIC: 'Cariñhoso'stream music

Composer

 

Pixinguinha, Brazilian composer of Carinhoso, featured in Sam Desmet's Unity in Diversity — Brazil chapter

 Pixinguinha – Alfredo da Rocha Viana Filho (1897–1973) was a groundbreaking composer, arranger, and flutist, widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in Brazilian music. He played a key role in shaping choro, a traditional Brazilian genre, blending African rhythms with European melodies. His innovative compositions, like “Cariñhoso” and “Lamentos,” transformed choro into a more sophisticated style, paving the way for modern Brazilian music. Pixinguinha’s contributions continue to inspire generations of musicians and define Brazil’s rich musical heritage.

Musician

Professional portrait of Sam Desmet in formal attire, showcasing confidence and sophistication.

Sam Desmet – classical guitarist from Belgium, known for blending tradition with innovation, using music to explore and celebrate cultural diversity through collaborations with artists from various disciplines.

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Song Lyrics

Cariñhoso

Meu coração,
Não sei por quê,
Bate feliz quando te vê.
E os meus olhos ficam sorrindo,
E pelas ruas vão te seguindo.
Mas mesmo assim foges de mim.

Ah se tu soubesses
Como sou tão cariñhoso,
E como muito, muito que te quero
E como é sincero o meu amor.
Eu sei que tu não fugirias mais de mim.

Vem, vem, vem, vem,
Vem sentir o calor dos lábios meus
À procura dos teus.

Vem matar essa paixão
Que me devora o coração.
E só assim então serei feliz,
Bem feliz.

Tender Loving

My heart,
I don’t know why,
beats happily when it sees you.
and my eyes keep smiling
and through the streets (they) follow you. But still you run off from me.

ah, if you (only) knew
how much tenderly loving1 I am,
and how much I desire you,
and how sincere my love is.
I know you would no longer run off from me.
come, come, come, come
come and feel the warmth of my lips
in search of yours.

Come and sate this passion
that devours my heart.
and just so, I will then be happy,
very happy.

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Diversity and unity in culture logo with circular design and harmonious theme.
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Thank you!

I extend my deepest gratitude to everyone who made this project possible

To United Arts of Central Florida, thank you for believing in me as an artist and awarding me the Community Project Grant that brought this vision to life. I am also profoundly grateful to the talented composers, arrangers, and visual artists who have enriched this journey with their creativity and dedication. To my mentors, colleagues, and the audiences who support and inspire me, your belief in this project means the world.

A special thanks to my wife Elizabeth and daughter Layna. Your unwavering support and belief in me, especially when challenges seemed insurmountable, have been my foundation. This project wouldn’t exist without you standing by my side every step of the way.