Cassio Vianna Jazz Orchestra Releases “Vida,” A Tribute to Life’s Journey and Brazilian Heritage

Album art photographed in Copenhagen by André Barreto

Pianist, composer, and PLU’s Director of Jazz Studies Cassio Vianna is set to release his highly anticipated album Vida on January 15, 2025. The new album features Vianna’s original compositions, brought to life by the Cassio Vianna Jazz Orchestra, an ensemble of 23 top-tier musicians including PLU’s own Kate Olson (saxophone), Ryan Wagner (trombone), Clipper Anderson (bass), Mark Ivester (drums), and David Joyner (piano). Special guest Eric Marienthal also joins the orchestra, adding to the album’s rich, dynamic sound.

Vida follows Cassio Vianna Jazz Orchestra’s debut album Infância (2017), marking his continued evolution as a composer and bandleader. With the release of Vida, Vianna celebrates his journey through life, reflecting on personal experiences, connections, and challenges that have shaped him. The album is a heartfelt tribute to life and a testament to his unique ability to blend Brazilian rhythms with big band jazz.

Cassio Vianna

The album features eight tracks that explore diverse themes and emotions, including the excitement of new beginnings (Tocando a Vida), the immigrant experience (Sea-Song), and the power of family bonds (Choro for my Boys).

The project received generous support from the Karen Hille Phillips Regency Advancement Award, Artist Trust – Seattle, and crowdfunding efforts. During the last 5 years, Vianna has made a conscious effort to connect with the music community and bring this ambitious project to fruition.

The album’s cover art, photographed by André Barreto in Copenhagen, features a carousel horse and roller coaster in an amusement park, symbolizing life’s cyclical nature, the highs and lows, and highlights the solitude that can linger even amidst a lively crowd. It embodies the inner child we all carry within us, a theme Vianna brings to life in his music.

Fellow musicians are praising Vida for its musical depth and expressive range. Jazz journalist Scott Yanow describes the album as “colorful and accessible while being a bit unpredictable,” noting Vianna’s skillful writing and arranging. Pianist and composer Jovino Santos Neto hails the album as “extraordinary” and praises Vianna’s ability to capture the essence of Brazilian music within a big band format. With such praise from fellow musicians, it is no surprise “that Vida stands as one of the foremost big-band albums of the year,” as noted by jazz writer and editor Jack Bowers.

Vida will be available for streaming on all platforms on January 15, 2025. Fans can also purchase the album directly from Vianna’s personal website and Bandcamp.

For more information, visit cassiovianna.com