Biro do Cavaco

Origin

Campinas, SP

Years Active

1984

Genres

samba, pagode, instrumental

Instruments

cavaquinho, acoustic guitar

Biography

Silvio Mariano dos Santos, artistically known as Biro do Cavaco, is a renowned Brazilian cavaquinho player, acoustic guitar player and music teacher. Born in Campinas, São Paulo, in 1962, Biro do Cavaco began his solo career in 1984, after having been a member of the group Os Originais do Samba. His first independent album, released that year, achieved great success with the song "Jéssica", which became one of his biggest hits. Throughout his career, he has released nine albums, establishing himself in traditional samba and instrumental music, with a repertoire that spans samba, pagode and instrumental arrangements.

In addition to his career as a musician, Biro do Cavaco has also stood out as an educator, developing and teaching cavaquinho, acoustic guitar and banjo courses in various formats, including video lessons and online platforms. His school, "Escola Biru's de Música", located in São Paulo, has over 25 years of operation, offering exclusive methods for teaching the instruments. His clear and popular teaching style, combined with vast experience acquired on stage and in the studio, makes him a reference in musical education.

Biro do Cavaco is recognized for his skill on the cavaquinho and for his contribution to the preservation and evolution of samba and pagode in Brazil. His music and his work as a teacher have influenced several generations of musicians, consolidating him as a master of the instrument. He remains active in the music scene, performing shows and releasing new works, maintaining his status as a figure revered by fans and specialized critics.

Discography

• Biro Do Cavaco & Grupo Destak – Trocando Olhares (1990)
• Biro Do Cavaco (1990)
• Do Amor à Paixão (1993)
• Essência (1999)
• Minha Paz (2000)
• Biro do Cavaco Ao Vivo (2003)
• Amanhã Tem Pagode (2006)