Canhotinho

Origin

Espírito Santo do Pinhal, SP

Also known as

Roberto Barbosa, Canhoto, Roberto (Canhoto) - Solista de Cavaquinho

Years active

1952

Genres

choro, samba, mpb

Instruments

cavaquinho, violão

Biography

Roberto Barbosa, widely known as Canhotinho do cavaquinho, was born in Espírito Santo do Pinhal, in the state of São Paulo, on September 14, 1938. Considered by the legendary Waldir Azevedo to be his legitimate successor, Canhotinho established himself as one of the greatest instrumentalists and composers in the history of choro and Brazilian popular music. His career began at a young age when he played in circuses and regional ensembles before cementing his mastery of the cavaquinho.

Throughout his career, he joined the famous group Demônios da Garoa starting in 1962, becoming the ensemble's first official cavaquinho player and participating in their recordings and tours for decades. In addition to his work with Demônios da Garoa, he acted as a prominent soloist, releasing striking albums such as "Valsas Inesquecíveis" and "Luz e Sombra - o LP que Waldir Azevedo não Gravou," the latter conceived as a posthumous tribute to his great master, even using an instrument that had belonged to Azevedo. Canhotinho also composed numerous songs recorded by the São Paulo group and by other big names in MPB, collaborating with established artists such as Adoniran Barbosa and Clara Nunes.

Known for his refined technique and melodic sensitivity, Canhotinho received awards at choro festivals and had his works adapted for different instrumental formations, in addition to lending his name to models of cavaquinhos manufactured by renowned Brazilian luthiers. His dedication to instrumental music and traditional samba guaranteed him a place of honor in the country's musical culture, being revered both by professional colleagues and by new generations of musicians.