Altair Martins

Origin

Mafra, SC

Years Active

1986–2023

Genres

jazz, instrumental music, MPB

Instruments

trumpet, percussion

Biography

Altair Martins was a renowned Brazilian trumpeter, born in Mafra, Santa Catarina, on May 15, 1969. His musical journey began at the age of ten, playing snare drum in his hometown's marching band. At 16, he deepened his studies in the trumpet, the instrument that would bring him national and international acclaim. His career was marked by a tireless dedication to instrumental music, participating in important ensembles and collaborating with a wide range of renowned artists.

In 1988, Altair Martins joined the Brazilian Air Force (FAB) band in Florianópolis, and in 1990 he moved to Rio de Janeiro, where he became the principal trumpet of the Fire Department Symphonic Band until 1995. From then on, he forged a successful independent career, performing on recordings for major record labels such as Sony, Warner, and EMI, in addition to participating in hundreds of albums by various Brazilian artists. His versatility led him to play with names like Fagner, Ana Carolina, Gilberto Gil, João Donato, and Chico Buarque, among many others.

In addition to his prolific career as a studio and live musician, Altair Martins also stood out for his work on television, participating in shows like "The Voice", "The Voice Kids", and "Super Star" for over twenty years with Rede Globo. He also toured Brazil and abroad, participated in film soundtracks and TV specials, and lived in the United States in the early 2000s, where he collaborated with American artists. Altair Martins passed away on September 1, 2023, leaving an invaluable legacy for Brazilian instrumental music.