Alfredo Del-Penho

Origin

São Fidélis, RJ

Years active

2000s

Genres

samba, choro, MPB

Instruments

voice, guitar, cavaquinho, flute, 7-string guitar

Biography

Alfredo Del-Penho is a Brazilian singer, guitarist, composer, and actor born on June 12, 1981, in São Fidélis, Rio de Janeiro. He is a multifaceted artist deeply involved in the Brazilian Popular Music (MPB) scene, with a career spanning over two decades. Del-Penho's artistic journey began with an early exposure to choro music in 1998, leading him to frequent jam sessions and serenades in Niterói, where he resided. This immersion led to his involvement with the group "Grupo Unha de Gato," marking his initial steps as a professional musician.

His career has been characterized by a strong connection to samba and choro, as well as a significant presence in theater. Del-Penho has released over ten albums as a producer or performer, exploring various facets of Brazilian music. He is also the founder, member, and musical director of "Barca dos Corações Partidos," a theater company dedicated to researching and creating original works within Brazilian musical theater. His work in theater has garnered numerous awards, including the Shell Award for Best Music in 2018, and multiple Cesgranrio, Reverência, Bibi Ferreira, Botequim Cultural, and APTR awards for his musical direction and original soundtracks.

Del-Penho has collaborated with and been recognized by many prominent figures in Brazilian music. He has performed with artists such as Wilson Moreira, Cristina Buarque, and Teresa Cristina, and his research contributions have been valued in projects like the "Novo MIS" (Museum of Image and Sound). In 2016, he was awarded "Best Samba Singer" at the 27th Prêmio da Música Brasileira for his album "Samba Sujo." His discography includes solo albums like "Samba Só" and collaborations such as "Dois Bicudos" with Pedro Paulo Malta, which has been recognized for updating the tradition of vocal duets in Brazilian samba. He has also been a judge for samba-enredo at the Rio de Janeiro special carnival group for five years.