Cadete

Origin

Ingazeira, PE

Also known as

Manoel Evêncio da Costa Moreira, KDT

Years active

1906–1944

Genres

choro, samba-choro

Instruments

piano

Biography

Manoel Evêncio da Costa Moreira, known as Cadete, was a Brazilian composer, pianist, and pharmacist born in Ingazeira, Pernambuco, on May 3, 1874. He moved to Rio de Janeiro in 1887, where he enrolled in the Military School, earning him the nickname "Cadete" (Cadet). His academic achievements were recognized by Emperor Dom Pedro II, who awarded him a medal for being the only student to answer a question about the value of the gram as a unit of weight.

Cadete's passion for music led him to become a renowned seresteiro (a singer of serenades). He befriended Satiro Bilhar, who introduced him to Catulo da Paixão Cearense in 1895, marking the beginning of a significant friendship and collaboration. Cadete became an integral part of the Rio de Janeiro music scene, associating with prominent figures such as Anacleto de Medeiros, Irineu de Almeida, Mário Pinheiro, Eduardo das Neves, Quincas Laranjeiras, and Ernesto Nazareth.

In addition to his musical pursuits, Cadete graduated in Pharmacy in 1910, excelling as the top student in his class. He later moved to Tibagi, Paraná, where he owned a pharmacy and, in the absence of local medical specialists, also served as a doctor. Cadete passed away in Tibagi on July 25, 1960, leaving behind a legacy as a multifaceted artist and professional.