Chiquinha Gonzaga(1999)

Chiquinha Gonzaga is a series about the Brazilian composer who defied 19th-century social convention to become a pioneering force in her nation's musical history. Raised in privilege by her father, Chiquinha was groomed for imperial court life, but exposure to the rhythms of Black yards and friendships with musicians like Joaquim Callado sparked her passion for composition. She began blending polka and lundu into bold new forms. Forced into marriage with Jacinto, she endured his prohibition against her playing until she chose separation—a scandalous act at the time. Chiquinha fought fiercely for her right to create and perform, eventually finding love and artistic freedom with João Batista de Carvalho Jr., with whom she had a daughter, Alice. Her life became a battle against the constraints placed on women artists.