Role

:

Composer  

Country

:

Brazil

Birth

:

December 26, 1952 in São Paulo, Brazil

Period

:

Contemporary

 

 

Modern

Genre

:

Chamber

 

Sergio Assad is a Brazilian classical guitarist and composer who has made significant contributions to the world of classical music. Born on December 20, 1952, in Mococa, São Paulo, Brazil, Assad grew up in a family of musicians. His father, Jorge Assad, was a mandolin player, and his mother, Dolores Assad, was a pianist. Sergio and his brother, Odair Assad, began playing music at a young age and quickly became known for their exceptional talent. As children, Sergio and Odair were exposed to a wide range of musical styles, including Brazilian folk music, jazz, and classical music. They began performing together as a duo in the 1960s and quickly gained a reputation as one of the most talented guitar duos in the world. In 1979, they won the prestigious Young Artists International Competition in New York City, which helped to launch their international career. Throughout his career, Sergio Assad has composed a wide range of music, including solo guitar pieces, chamber music, and orchestral works. His compositions are known for their intricate rhythms, complex harmonies, and unique blend of Brazilian and classical music styles. One of Assad's most famous works is his Suite Brasileira No. 1, which was composed in 1984. The suite is a collection of four pieces that showcase the rich musical traditions of Brazil. The first movement, "Preludio e Toccatina," is a lively and energetic piece that features intricate fingerpicking and complex rhythms. The second movement, "Cantiga," is a beautiful and melodic piece that showcases Assad's skill as a composer. The third movement, "Choro," is a traditional Brazilian style of music that features a fast-paced melody and intricate rhythms. The final movement, "Fuga," is a complex and challenging piece that showcases Assad's skill as a composer and guitarist. Another notable work by Assad is his Concerto for Guitar and Chamber Orchestra, which was composed in 2002. The concerto is a three-movement work that features a solo guitar accompanied by a chamber orchestra. The first movement, "Allegro," is a fast-paced and energetic piece that showcases the virtuosity of the soloist. The second movement, "Lento," is a beautiful and melodic piece that features a hauntingly beautiful guitar melody. The final movement, "Allegro," is a lively and energetic piece that brings the concerto to a thrilling conclusion. In addition to his work as a composer, Assad is also known for his collaborations with other musicians. He has worked with a wide range of artists, including Yo-Yo Ma, Paquito D'Rivera, and Nadja Salerno-Sonnenberg. He has also collaborated with his brother, Odair, on numerous recordings and performances. Throughout his career, Assad has received numerous awards and accolades for his contributions to the world of classical music. In 2015, he was awarded the Latin Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award for his contributions to Brazilian music. He has also been awarded the Order of Cultural Merit by the Brazilian government and the Medal of Honor by the city of São Paulo. In conclusion, Sergio Assad is a Brazilian classical guitarist and composer who has made significant contributions to the world of classical music. His compositions are known for their intricate rhythms, complex harmonies, and unique blend of Brazilian and classical music styles.

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