Ernesto Nazareth

Ernesto Nazareth was a Brazilian composer and pianist, born on March 20, 1863, in Rio de Janeiro. He is widely regarded as one of the pioneers of Brazilian instrumental music and a key figure in the development of the Choro genre. Nazareth's musical style was a fusion of Brazilian rhythms, European classical music, and African influences. During his career, which spanned from the late 19th to the early 20th century, he composed over 200 pieces, including famous and enduring works such as "Odeon" and "Brejeiro." Nazareth's compositions showcased his virtuosity on the piano and his ability to blend various musical traditions, earning him recognition as a significant contributor to Brazilian music. His works continue to resonate with audiences worldwide, and his influence on subsequent generations of composers is undeniable. Despite personal struggles and an untimely death in 1934, Nazareth's musical legacy continues to endure, cementing his status as a central figure in the history of Brazilian music.