Avena de Castro

Origin

Rio de Janeiro, RJ

Also known as

Heitor Avena de Castro

Years active

1937–1981

Genres

choro, samba, popular music

Instruments

zither, cítara

Biography

Heitor Avena de Castro, known professionally as Avena de Castro, was a highly regarded Brazilian citarista (zither player) and composer, born in Rio de Janeiro on December 7, 1919. He is recognized as one of the few popular zither players in Brazil, bridging classical training with the vibrant rhythms of Brazilian popular music, particularly choro. Castro began his musical studies at a young age, dedicating himself to the zither, an instrument of European origin. His early career, starting in 1937, saw him perform as a soloist and in duos, gaining recognition in concert halls across Brazil. By the 1950s, he had established himself as a concert performer, specializing in classical and romantic repertoire, including transcriptions of works by Bach and Chopin. His interest in choro led him to transcribe pieces by Ernesto Nazareth, adapting them for the zither and infusing them with the characteristic swing of Brazilian genres.

Castro's career took a significant turn in the late 1960s when he moved to Brasília. There, he became deeply involved in the burgeoning music scene, co-founding the Clube do Choro de Brasília in 1977 and serving as its first president. His friendship with prominent musicians like Jacob do Bandolim and Waldir Azevedo was instrumental in his career. He recorded with both artists, and his 1969 album, "Avena de Castro relembra Jacob Bittencourt," featured Jacob do Bandolim's last recording, a poignant tribute to their musical bond. Castro's compositions, such as "Evocação a Jacob," became notable contributions to the choro repertoire.

Avena de Castro passed away in Brasília on July 11, 1981. His legacy as a pioneer of the zither in Brazilian popular music, particularly in choro, continues to be celebrated. His work has been preserved and performed by subsequent generations of musicians, ensuring his unique contribution to Brazilian musical heritage remains alive. His dedication to the zither and his ability to blend classical precision with the soulful expression of choro solidified his place as a unique and influential artist in Brazilian music.