Chôros No. 5, subtitled "Alma Brasileira" (Brazilian Soul), is a piano solo composition by the renowned Brazilian composer Heitor Villa-Lobos. It was composed in 1925 and forms part of a larger series of fourteen works titled Chôros, which Villa-Lobos created between 1920 and 1929.
The Chôros series is a monumental and highly original collection of works that explore various facets of Brazilian popular and indigenous music, often employing diverse instrumental combinations ranging from solo guitar to full orchestra and choir. Each Chôros aims to capture the essence and spirit of Brazilian musical forms and cultural expressions.
Chôros No. 5 stands out within the series as one of the more intimate and frequently performed pieces, especially among pianists. Unlike some of its larger-scale counterparts, it is a relatively concise work, typically lasting only a few minutes. Its character is often described as lyrical, expressive, and imbued with a sense of melancholic longing or saudade—a deep emotional state characteristic of Brazilian culture. The piece showcases Villa-Lobos's ability to blend sophisticated compositional techniques with a genuine evocation of Brazilian popular sentiment, making it a significant contribution to the piano repertoire and an enduring example of his nationalistic musical style.