Mark Tonelli - Brasiliana (2026)

Brasiliana grew out of guitarist and composer Mark Tonelli’s long relationship with Brazil. Between 2022 and 2025, Tonelli made thirteen trips to the country — first as a Fulbright Scholar teaching music at a university, and later returning to perform, listen, and live within Brazilian culture.

Of the album’s nine original compositions, six are directly shaped by those experiences. Their melodies and harmonies are rooted in specific people, places, and moments, reflecting a deep personal connection rather than mere stylistic imitation. The remaining three pieces draw more directly from Tonelli’s jazz background, giving space to improvisation and interaction among Tonelli and his Brazilian collaborators.

Taken as a whole, Brasiliana traces a quiet creative journey — from jazz composition toward a music shaped by immersion, relationship, and lived experience.

A companion documentary by Brazilian filmmaker Thiago S. Barbosa explores the longer story behind the album and will be released later this year.

Personnel:
Mark Tonelli - guitar
Raphael Ferreira - tenor and soprano saxophones
Guilherme Ribeiro - piano (track 2 only)
Richard Metairon - bass
Rodrigo “Digão” Braz - drums