The emergence of Toninho Horta's musical talent in the mid-80's has made its mark as a watershed for the Brazilian guitar. Almost single-handedly, Horta has redefined his instrument and its style of play, which remained largely unchallenged since bossa nova exploded on Rio's musical scene in the capable hands of João Gilberto.

For 'Brazilian Guitar Month' we'll introduce you to an acoustic live recrding which remains as a standard for the Brazilian guitar to this day. The CD is called 'Serenade'.

With 'Serenade', the guitar continues in its evolution as the defining instrument in Brazilian music. Horta authors an unending variety of style and nuance by melding his voice with mesmerizing rhythmic, harmonic and melodic elements into each of the 12 tracks.

Recorded in Seoul, South Korea, 'Serenade' gives Horta the opportunity to intimately showcase his talent in the revealing light of a solo setting. It is perhaps the greatest test of creative distinction, and the results are exceptional in both musical content and aural fidelity, giving us a front row set for a magnificent concert performance.

There's an immediate sense of emotive freedom with Horta's voice and guitar that carries through this aptly titled CD; a reminder of the true artistic product - the elemental quality - that is too often overlooked in production and packaging.

Henry Mancini's "Moon River" and Cole Porter's "I Love You" show a reflective side, while others such as Horta's exuberant "Gershwin" with its powerful guitar play, the romantic "Liana" and the title track receive interpretations that showcase the writer and the performer in a way that is rarely experienced.

'Serenade's' graceful combination of original titles also pays tribute to Brazil's legendary composer Dorival Caymmi with "Saudade Da Bahia." Horta begins by duplicating Caymmi's style, then gracefully allows the song to develop as it unfolds into his own trademark signature, with beautifully shifting harmonies that add a sense of reverence to the song.

No other single guitarist can accomplish what Horta crafts with this flawless play: at times, it will seem that you're hearing two guitars. And that's the true magic of 'Serenade'. No overdubs, no blending of tracks to build a perfect tune. Just Toninho Horta naturally, in the singular form, playing as if he were at home with his family and his friends.