Hermeto Pascoal

Hermeto Pascoal - Portrait by Gert Chesi

Hermeto Pascoal
Birth name	Hermeto Pascoal
Born	Birth date -1st March 1966 Lagoa da Canoa, Alagoas, Brazil
Genres	Jazz, experimental music, Brazilian music
Occupation(s)	Musician, composer, arranger
Instrument(s)	Piano, accordion, flute, saxophone, guitar, voice, various unconventional instruments
Years active	1950s–present
Labels	Warner Bros. Records, Reprise Records, ECM Records

Hermeto Pascoal (born June 22, 1936) is a Brazilian musician and composer known for his proficiency with a wide range of instruments and his innovative approach to music. Often referred to as "O Bruxo" (The Sorcerer), Pascoal is celebrated for his ability to create music from virtually any object, including unconventional instruments.

Early Life

Hermeto Pascoal was born in Lagoa da Canoa, a small village in the state of Alagoas, Brazil. From a young age, he was exposed to the rich musical traditions of the region, which influenced his eclectic style. He began playing the accordion as a child and quickly demonstrated a natural talent for music.

Career

Pascoal's career began in the 1950s when he moved to Recife and later to Rio de Janeiro, where he became involved in the local music scene. He played with various bands and gained recognition for his virtuosic skills on multiple instruments.

Collaboration with Miles Davis

One of the most significant milestones in Pascoal's career was his collaboration with the legendary jazz musician Miles Davis. Davis included Pascoal's compositions in his 1971 album Live-Evil, which brought international attention to Pascoal's work.

Solo Career

Pascoal has released numerous albums as a solo artist, showcasing his unique blend of jazz, experimental music, and traditional Brazilian music. His albums often feature a mix of conventional instruments and everyday objects used to create sound.

Teaching and Influence

In addition to his performance career, Pascoal is also a respected educator. He has conducted workshops and masterclasses around the world, sharing his innovative approach to music with students and fellow musicians. His influence can be seen in the work of many contemporary artists who draw inspiration from his boundary-pushing techniques.

Personal Life

Pascoal is known for his eccentric personality and his deep connection to nature. He often incorporates natural sounds into his music and is an advocate for environmental conservation.

Discography

• A Música Livre de Hermeto Pascoal (1973)
• Slaves Mass (1977)
• Cérebro Magnético (1980)
• Brasil Universo (1986)
• Festa dos Deuses (1992)
• Mundo Verde Esperança (2003)

Legacy

Hermeto Pascoal's contributions to music have earned him a place among the most innovative and influential musicians of his time. His ability to transcend traditional musical boundaries and create new sounds has inspired generations of musicians and continues to captivate audiences worldwide.

See Also

• Brazilian music
• Jazz
• Experimental music
• Miles Davis
• Airto Moreira
• Flora Purim