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Ennio Morricone and Brazilian Carnival: What Do They Have in Common?
At first glance, they appear to sit at opposite ends of global culture. Yet the Italian composer and the world’s biggest Carnival celebration are connected by links that run far deeper than one might expect. Discover how these worlds collide.
When Italian Cinema Landed in Rio
Morricone composed the soundtrack for the 1967 Italian heist film Grand Slam (Ad Ogni Costo), directed by Giuliano Montaldo. The story follows a university professor, disillusioned with academic life, who devises an ambitious diamond robbery during Rio de Janeiro’s Carnival, assembling a team of international specialists. Drama, action and… plenty of samba-fuelled energy.
With electrifying scenes, glamorous locations and unexpected twists, the film is also driven by a soundtrack brimming with personality. For this production, Morricone joined forces with a major Brazilian artist: José Prates.
A maestro and researcher from Maranhão, Prates was a pivotal figure in bringing Afro-Brazilian music and Candomblé traditions to international stages. He is best known for the cult album Tam… Tam… Tam…! (1958) and for leading the influential group Brasiliana, which helped introduce Brazilian culture to audiences around the world.
From this collaboration emerged tracks that range from romantic bossa novas to Carnival marchinhas and irresistible sambas. Listen below.
Press play and step into the rhythm:
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Learn More About the Composers
Ennio Morricone
Ennio Morricone (1928–2020) was one of the greatest film composers of all time, with more than 500 soundtracks to his name. His music defined classics such as The Good, the Bad and the Ugly, The Mission, Cinema Paradiso and The Hateful Eight, the latter earning him an Academy Award.
His unmistakable signature lies in the fusion of classical and popular music, the inventive use of everyday sounds and melodies that hei
José Prates
José Prates was a musician, conductor, composer and researcher of Brazilian folklore. A late self-taught musician, he built a body of work rooted in the fusion of popular music, Afro-Brazilian rhythms and theatrical language.
Founder of Grupo Brasiliana, he introduced Brazilian culture to audiences around the world and was a pioneer in Europe. His music combines artistic rigour, cultural sensitivity and deep respect for popular traditions.
The Soundtrack for Your Carnival Project Starts Here
At Universal Production Music, you’ll find iconic Ennio Morricone tracks alongside a comprehensive catalogue designed to set the perfect mood for your Carnival productions. From classic marchinhas to the power of samba school drum sections, plus the pulse of maracatu and Afro-Brazilian percussion, we have the music to turn any project into a celebration.
Explore our special playlist, discover new sonic possibilities and let Carnival come alive.
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