Carlos Lima

Origin

São Paulo, SP

Also known as

Carlos Barbosa-Lima

Years Active

1958–2022

Genres

classical, jazz, bossa nova, samba, popular brazilian, latin american

Instruments

guitar

Biography

Carlos Barbosa-Lima was a globally acclaimed Brazilian guitarist and arranger, celebrated for his musical mastery and versatility. Born in São Paulo, Brazil, on December 17, 1944, he began playing the guitar at the age of seven, quickly showing a prodigious talent. His father, recognizing his son's aptitude, hired a teacher, and young Carlos soon surpassed his instructor.

Lima's professional career began in 1960 with touring in Uruguay and across Brazil. He made his American debut in Washington, D.C., in 1967 and subsequently moved to the United States, where he spent most of his professional life. He became a renowned recitalist, undertaking international concert tours and often appearing as a soloist with orchestras. His technical skill and musical sensitivity led him to collaborate with numerous renowned artists and inspired composers to write works specifically for him, such as Alberto Ginastera, who dedicated his Sonata, Op. 47, to the guitarist. He also had a close relationship with Antônio Carlos Jobim, sharing mutual admiration and musical collaborations that resulted in acclaimed recordings blending genres.

As an accomplished arranger, Carlos Barbosa-Lima created numerous transcriptions of Latin American music and released over 40 albums. He held teaching positions at Carnegie Mellon University and the Manhattan School of Music. His final album, "Delicado," released in 2019, was a tribute to Brazilian music. Carlos Barbosa-Lima passed away on February 23, 2022, in Paraty, Brazil, at the age of 77, leaving a significant legacy in the world of classical and jazz guitar.