Sivuca

Sivuca

Sivuca (born Severino Dias de Oliveira; March 26, 1930 – December 14, 2006) was a Brazilian accordionist, composer, and arranger. Known for his versatility and virtuosity, Sivuca's music spanned various genres, including forró, bossa nova, choro, and jazz. His career, which lasted over five decades, made significant contributions to Brazilian and world music.

Early Life

Sivuca was born in Itabaiana, a small town in the state of Paraíba, Brazil. He began playing the accordion at a young age and quickly gained local recognition for his talent. By the age of nine, he was already performing on local radio stations.

Career

Early Career

In the 1950s, Sivuca moved to Recife, where he joined the Radio Club of Pernambuco as a professional musician. His big break came when he moved to Rio de Janeiro and started working with renowned artists such as Carmélia Alves and Ciro Monteiro.

International Success

In the 1960s, Sivuca moved to Europe, where he collaborated with various international artists. He spent several years in Portugal and France, where he worked with artists like Miriam Makeba and Jean-Pierre Rampal. His international exposure helped him gain a global audience.

Return to Brazil

Sivuca returned to Brazil in the 1970s and continued to perform and record. He collaborated with many Brazilian artists, including Elis Regina, Chico Buarque, and Gilberto Gil. His unique style, which blended traditional Brazilian music with elements of jazz and classical music, made him a beloved figure in Brazilian music.

Musical Style

Sivuca's music is characterized by its rich harmonies, intricate rhythms, and virtuosic accordion playing. He was known for his ability to blend different musical genres seamlessly. His compositions often featured complex arrangements and showcased his technical prowess on the accordion.

Notable Works

Some of Sivuca's most famous works include:

• "Feira de Mangaio"
• "João e Maria" (with Chico Buarque)
• "Adeus Maria Fulô"

Legacy

Sivuca's contributions to music have left a lasting impact on both Brazilian and international music scenes. His innovative approach to the accordion and his ability to blend different musical styles have inspired countless musicians.

Personal Life

Sivuca was married to the singer and composer Glorinha Gadelha, with whom he frequently collaborated. He passed away on December 14, 2006, in João Pessoa, Paraíba, after a long battle with cancer.

Discography

• Sivuca (1973)
• Live at the Village Gate (1975)
• Forró e Frevo (1980)
• Sivuca Sinfônico (2006)

See Also

• Forró
• Bossa nova
• Choro
• Jazz
• Accordion