In brief
The iconic Brazilian composer and multi-instrumentalist Hermeto Pascoal has died at the age of 89. Known for his experimental compositions that meld jazz with Brazilian music, Pascoal leaves a rich legacy of creativity and innovation. He passed away surrounded by family and fellow musicians, continuing to inspire generations of artists and music lovers.
Hermeto Pascoal, the innovative Brazilian composer famed for his blend of jazz and traditional music, has died at the age of 89.
The self-taught multi-instrumentalist rose from child poverty to international fame, with Miles Davis calling him the most important musician on the planet.
He was surrounded by family and fellow musicians, a statement announcing his death says. It did not give details.
Pascoal wrote more than 2,000 instrumental pieces and continued to arrange music and record artists well into his 80s.
The artist was primarily a pianist and flutist, but also played saxophone, guitars, drums, and accordions – frequently incorporating household objects into his work.
While recording his debut album Slaves Mass for Warner Brothers in 1976, he brought a pair of live pigs into the studio.
Born on June 22, 1936, in a rural settlement north-east of Alagoas, he was unable to work outside with his family due to his albinism and taught himself music while spending his days indoors.
Aged 10, he began playing at dances and weddings, later performing forró and other traditional Brazilian music across the region.
In the late 1950s, he moved to Rio de Janeiro and discovered the city's jazz scene, performing in nightclubs and joining a radio orchestra.
His blend of jazz and traditional folk styles sparked the attention of Brazil's biggest stars, including Elis Regina and percussionist Airto Moreira, who accompanied him on a US tour where he was introduced to Miles Davis.
Despite earning the respect of luminaries in the jazz world, Pascoal rejected the label as a jazz musician, saying he owed as much to Brazilian music like chorinho and samba.
Pascoal's family announced his death on Instagram, urging people to honor him by letting a single note ring from an instrument, their voice, or even a kettle.
