Pixinguinha, whose given name was Alfredo da Rocha Vianna Filho, was a towering figure in the history of Brazilian music, notably within the realm of Choro – a genre of instrumental music with roots in the 19th century. Born on April 23, 1897, in Rio de Janeiro, he was a child prodigy who rose to prominence as a flautist, composer, arranger, and conductor. His compositions often blended Afro-Brazilian rhythms with other contemporary styles, and this innovative approach made him one of the pioneers of modern Brazilian music.

Throughout the first half of the 20th century, Pixinguinha's music encapsulated the heart of Brazil's cultural identity. His song "Carinhoso," which has become an enduring standard, is just one example of his genius. Although he started as a flautist, economic necessity led him to take up the saxophone, on which he also became quite influential. Pixinguinha's partnership with fellow musician Benedito Lacerda in the 1940s resulted in a series of memorable recordings that further solidified his status in Brazil’s music scene. Sadly, he passed away on February 17, 1973, but his legacy lives on through his compositions and the rich musical traditions he helped shape. Through albums like "The Complete Works" and "Latin Jazz Roots," modern audiences can still experience the depth of his contribution to not only Brazilian music but to the world's cultural tapestry.

Genres

Bossa Nova

Brazilian Jazz

Choro

Mpb

Samba

Velha Guarda

Related Artists

Antônio Carlos Jobim

Baden Powell

João Gilberto

Vinícius de Moraes

Paulinho Da Viola

Heitor Villa-Lobos

Ella Fitzgerald

Stan Getz

Chico Buarque

Astrud Gilberto

Elis Regina

Toquinho

Latest Release

Ainda Me Recordo (1999 Remastered)

Benedito Lacerda•

Pixinguinha

Album - 9 Tracks - Released May 10, 2024