The outstanding piano virtuosos and composers Henrique Oswald (1852-1931) and Alfredo Napoleão (1852-1917) shared numerous similarities in their lives. While Oswald was born in Rio de Janeiro, Napoleão hailed from Porto. Their ancestry was distinctly European: Oswald's father came from German-speaking Switzerland, his mother from Italy; Napoleão, on the other hand, had an Italian father and a Portuguese mother. Both displayed exceptional talent from a young age and traveled extensively as concert pianists, teaching and composing in various countries.
The year 1868 marked a turning point for both 16-year-olds. Oswald left his hometown of Rio de Janeiro to continue his studies in Europe, while Napoleão left his native Portugal that same year to seek his fortune in Brazil. Both artists had the honor of performing before the Brazilian Emperor Dom Pedro II—Oswald in Florence in 1879 and Napoleão in Rio de Janeiro as early as 1869. Only Oswald survived the First World War. Their paths must have crossed in Brazil, as Napoleão's brother published works by both composers. Ultimately, both returned to their homelands, where they died. As pioneers in foreign lands, they demonstrated exceptional talent as composers.
Henrique Oswald grew up in a musical environment. After a profound experience in his childhood, he went to Europe to study. He received instruction in composition and piano from renowned teachers such as Brahms and Liszt and forged important connections. In his later years, Oswald performed sacred works and achieved worldwide recognition for his talent.
Alfredo Napoleão, who also grew up in a family passionate about music, made a name for himself as a pianist and composer. His travels and performances in various countries shaped his artistic career. His second piano concerto in E-flat minor, Op. 31, full of elegant compositions, was only premiered posthumously with orchestra.
These two artists left significant marks on music history, and their remarkable talent and artistic legacy continue to inspire admiration today.