Jacob do Bandolim, whose real name was Jacob Pick Bittencourt, is a pivotal figure in the world of Brazilian music, particularly within the Choro genre. Born on February 14, 1918, in Rio de Janeiro, Jacob was not only a virtuoso on the bandolim, or mandolin, but he was also a passionate advocate for Choro—a style characterized by its upbeat tempo and intricate melodies. Jacob was a perfectionist who often destroyed recordings that did not meet his high standards. Despite his intense nature, he significantly contributed to the popularization of Choro music, both through his masterful playing and his efforts to preserve the genre's repertoire and history for future generations.

Jacob do Bandolim became an icon through his emotive performances and complex compositions, such as "Noites Cariocas" and "Doce de coco," which have become standards in the Choro canon. Tragically, his life was cut short at age 51 when he suffered a fatal heart attack on August 13, 1969. However, his legacy endures in the recordings he left behind, which continue to be celebrated and studied by musicians around the world, as evidenced by collections like "The Music of Brazil: Jacob do Bandolim, Volume 3 / Recordings 1950 - 1958" and "The Music of Brazil / Jacob do Bandolim, Vol. 1 / Recordings 1949 - 1958." His centenary anniversary in 2018 was marked by the release "100 Anos (1918-2018)," reminding audiences of his timeless contributions to Brazilian music and culture.

Genres

Bandolim

Bossa Nova

Choro

Samba

Velha Guarda

Violao

Latest Release

Valsas evocativas

Jacob Do Bandolim

Album - 8 Tracks - Released February 23, 2024