Daniela Spielmann

Origin

Rio de Janeiro, RJ

Years active

1998–Present

Genres

choro, mpb, samba, bossa nova, jazz, frevo, maracatu, instrumental

Instruments

saxophone, flute, arranger, composer, pianist

Biography

Daniela Spielmann is a highly respected Brazilian saxophonist, flutist, composer, arranger, researcher, and educator, renowned for her significant contributions to the Choro and instrumental music scenes. She began her musical journey at seventeen, with her playing deeply influenced by the traditional wind instruments of Choro, such as the clarinet and flute. Spielmann's music masterfully blends Choro with elements of frevo, maracatu, samba, bossa nova, and jazz, showcasing both her interpretive strength and compositional creativity. Her extensive discography includes twelve solo or group CDs, with her 2001 solo album, "Brazilian Breath," earning a Latin Grammy nomination in 2002. She was also a fixture on the popular Brazilian TV show "Altas Horas" from 2000 to 2014, where she served as an arranger and performer.

Spielmann is a founding member of the influential Choro ensemble Rabo de Lagartixa, formed in 1993. The group's debut CD in 1998 received critical acclaim, and Rabo de Lagartixa has since been recognized with nominations for Best Instrumental Group. Beyond her work with Rabo de Lagartixa, she has been part of other notable projects such as the duo Spielmann-Zagury, Projeto Gafieirando, and Choro na Rua. Her collaborations extend to numerous prominent Brazilian artists, including Sivuca, Zé Menezes, Zé da Velha, Silvério Pontes, Anat Cohen, Aurea Martins, Moyseis Marques, and Zélia Duncan, among many others. Spielmann has also toured internationally, sharing Brazilian music across Europe, the United States, and South America.

In addition to her performance career, Daniela Spielmann is deeply committed to music education and research. She holds a Master's degree and a doctorate, with her doctoral thesis focusing on Gafieira music and its connection to groove music and dance. She has taught at various institutions and workshops, including Centrum's Choro Camp, and has been recognized with honorary motions from the city councils of Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo for her contributions to music. Spielmann's dedication to preserving and innovating Brazilian musical traditions, particularly Choro, solidifies her position as a vital figure in the country's rich musical landscape.