Armando Neves

Origin

Campinas, SP

Also known as

Armandinho Neves

Years active

1923–1976

Genres

choro, samba, maxixe, valsas, choros, gavotas

Instruments

violão

Biography

Armando Neves, widely known as Armandinho, was a prominent Brazilian guitarist and composer born in Campinas, São Paulo, on November 28, 1902. His musical journey began in his youth, influenced by the vibrant musical scene of São Paulo. Despite never learning to read or write music, Neves possessed an extraordinary talent for composition and guitar playing, with his professor often transcribing his melodies. His early life was marked by diverse experiences, including work as a cowboy, house painter, and construction helper, and even a stint as a professional footballer for Corinthians before dedicating himself fully to music.

Neves's career took flight in the 1920s when he moved to São Paulo and began performing with renowned musicians like Paraguassú. He became a fixture in radio, working with pioneering stations like Rádio Educadora Paulista and Rádio Record, where he led regional ensembles for three decades. His collaborations and friendships included notable figures such as Américo Jacomino (Canhoto), João Pernambuco, and Raul Torres. Neves's compositions, primarily choros, were highly regarded and recorded by artists like Garoto, Rago, Aymoré, and Geraldo Ribeiro. His most famous compositions include "Mafuá," "Maxixe nº1," and "Choro em dó menor."

Although Neves did not leave behind many solo recordings, his legacy is preserved through the works of other artists and academic studies. In 1977, a tribute LP titled "Armandinho Neves" was released, featuring various guitarists. Later, in 2004, violinist Paola Pichersky released a CD of his compositions, "18 Choros de Armando Neves," further highlighting his significant contribution to Brazilian instrumental music. Armando Neves passed away in São Paulo on October 12, 1976, leaving behind a rich body of work that continues to be appreciated by musicians and enthusiasts of Brazilian popular music.