Oscar Lorenzo Fernández (1897 -1948) was a Brazilian composer of Spanish descent. He was born and died in Rio de Janeiro.
Fernández composed one opera (Malazarte), one ballet, two symphonies, five symphonic poems, two orchestral suites, one concerto each for piano and for violin, chamber music, about 80 compositions for piano, choral music, and 36 songs.
His most well known work is 'Batuque' from the 'Suite Brasileira Reisade do Pastores'. This 'Batuque', with Afro-Brazilian musical traditions is the sort of piece that makes one want to hear more. It is virtually a rhythmic sparring match with unexpected shifts of accent, using original material rather than quoting actual folk music. It is brief, but vastly entertaining.
Dutch arranger Jos van de Braak transcribed this wonderful piece for Symphonic Band.