Hermeto Pascoal, a Brazilian composer and multi-instrumentalist renowned for his eclectic blend of jazz and traditional music, has passed away at the age of 89.
Pascoal’s innovative spirit and versatility as a musician earned him international recognition, with legendary jazz musicians like Miles Davis hailing him as ‘the most important musician on the planet’.
A self-taught prodigy who rose from child poverty to global acclaim, Pascoal continued to create music until his 80s, leaving behind an impressive legacy of over 2,000 instrumental pieces.
As a pianist and flutist, Pascoal was equally adept at playing saxophone, guitars, drums, and accordions. He often incorporated unconventional objects into his work, such as bringing live pigs onto the set during one of his early recording sessions.
Born in 1936 in a rural settlement in Brazil, Pascoal’s musical journey began at a young age, driven by his passion for music rather than formal education.
Despite facing challenges due to his albinism, Pascoal taught himself music and went on to perform traditional Brazilian styles like forró. His unique blend of jazz and folk influences captivated the attention of Brazil’s biggest stars, including Elis Regina and Airto Moreira.
Pascoal’s refusal to be pigeonholed as a ‘jazz musician’ underscored his dedication to Brazilian music, as he often said, ‘When they think I am doing one thing, I am already doing something else… It’s very liquid.’
The news of Pascoal’s passing has been met with tributes from fans and fellow musicians worldwide. His family announced the news on his Instagram page, urging people to ‘let a single note ring’ in their honor.
Source: www.bbc.com
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