March. This month we feature Acalanto da rosa (Lullaby to the Rose), a poem written by Vinícius de Moraes (1913-1980) and set to music by Brazilian composer Claudio Santoro (1919-1989). In 1957, at the time of their meeting in Paris, both poet and composer were fresh from the pains of two "impossible" love affairs (see CD Liner notes by Luiz Paul Horta). This theme is reflected in many of the 13 songs found in their pseudo-cycle Canções de Amor (Songs of Love). Enjoy Brazilian baritone José Hue's plaintive interpretation of this and other Santoro songs by purchasing the complete album here. [Soundfile available for APPLE or WINDOWS users.]

The star sleeps in the sky, the rose sleeps in its garden, The moon sleeps in the sea, love sleeps inside me One has to step softly, oh, one should not speak. My love is falling asleep, how sweet her perfume Sleep in peace pure rose, your sleep is endless

Dorme a estrela no céu, dorme a rosa em seu jardim, Dorme a lua no mar, dorme o amor dentro de mim É preciso pisar leve, ai, é preciso não falar Meu amor se adormece que suave é o seu perfume Dorme em paz rosa pura o teu sono não tem fim

(English poetic translation by Anne Marie Zemgulis)