Manha de Carnaval, also known in a variety of other titles such as Carnival. The Theme from Black Orpheus and A Day in the Life of a Fool. is probably Brazilian guitarist/composer Luiz Bonfa's most well-known and most-loved songs. It appeared in the 1959 film Black Orpheus and is considered by many to be one of the most influential compositions to establish the Bossa Nova style in the late 1950s. From a personal experience every arrangement for solo guitar I have come across of this lovely tune has been of a technically high standard and it is pleasing to state that this arrangement by French guitarist Jean-Marie Raymond is very much of an easier nature, probably around the Intermediate standard. Due to this relatively uncomplicated presentation there inevitably have to be compromises and although this new publication works extremely well some of the lush harmonies more 'rounded' chords one tends to associate this piece with is missed. However I don't want to put prospective purchasers of this music as it is a really nice arrangement, well printed and with good fingering throughout.
Steve Marsh (Classical Guitar Magazine)
