Alceu Reis

Origin

Rio de Janeiro, RJ

Genres

classical music, chamber music

Instruments

cello

Biography

Alceu Reis is a renowned Brazilian cellist and educator who has made significant contributions to classical music in Brazil. He studied under Iberê Gomes Grosso and later perfected his art with Pierre Fournier, establishing a distinguished career as an orchestral and chamber musician. For many years, he served as the principal cellist of the Theatro Municipal Symphony Orchestra of Rio de Janeiro and later held the same position as guest principal with the São Paulo State Symphony Orchestra (Osesp). Throughout his career, he has been recognized with prestigious accolades such as the Sharp Prize, the Carlos Gomes Prize, and honors from the São Paulo Association of Art Critics (APCA).

As an accomplished chamber musician, Reis was a founding member of the Quarteto Amazônia and played with the Quarteto Bessler, eventually becoming a member of the Quarteto Raga. His extensive discography includes critically acclaimed recordings featuring works by renowned composers such as Heitor Villa-Lobos and Alberto Nepomuceno, released on prominent labels like Kuarup. Notably, his work with the Quarteto Amazônia earned a Latin Grammy in 2002 following an extensive European tour. His musical excellence has also been praised internationally by publications like The New York Times and Diapason.

In addition to his performance career, Alceu Reis is a dedicated pedagogue who has shaped generations of musicians. He taught for many years at Uni-Rio and has served as a guest professor at major Brazilian music festivals, as well as a jury member for competitions like the International Villa-Lobos Competition. His enduring impact on the Brazilian musical landscape is cemented by his inclusion in the Publifolha Brazilian Music Encyclopedia, and his former students currently occupy chairs in major orchestras both in Brazil and abroad.