Laurindo Almeida

Full biography Laurindo Almeida

Laurindo Almeida was a Brazilian composer, guitarist and arranger, born on September 2, 1917, in the city of São Paulo, Brazil. He's known for being one of the pioneering composers and performers of Brazilian classical guitar music.

Almeida's career spanned more than five decades, during which he created a wide range of music that blended classical, Brazilian, and jazz styles. He was versatile and experimented with various genres, such as bossa nova, samba, and Latin jazz.

In the 1940s and 1950s, Almeida was a prolific performer and arranger in Hollywood, playing in numerous films and television programs. He worked with a variety of renowned artists, including Charlie Chaplin, Ginger Rogers, and Diana Ross.

Almeida was also a prolific composer, creating more than 200 pieces for the guitar alone. His compositions are notable for their intricate melodies and harmonies, and he often blended Brazilian folk music with classical music, resulting in an innovative sound.

Throughout his life, Almeida received numerous honors and awards for his contributions to music. In 1995, he was inducted into the International Jazz Hall of Fame, while in 2003, he was posthumously awarded a Latin Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award.

Laurindo Almeida passed away on July 26, 1995, in Los Angeles, California, leaving behind a rich legacy of music that continues to inspire and influence musicians today.