David Chew

Origin

Rio de Janeiro, RJ

Years active

1970

Genres

classical music, chamber music

Instruments

cello

Biography

David Chew is a British-born cellist who has acquired Brazilian citizenship, establishing a deeply rooted career in the Brazilian classical music scene. After training at the Guildhall School of Music in London and performing with prominent international ensembles like the BBC Symphony Orchestra, he moved to Brazil where he became the principal cellist of the Brazilian Symphony Orchestra (Orquestra Sinfônica Brasileira). His profound dedication to Brazilian music led him to specialize in the works of Heitor Villa-Lobos, an artistic focus that shaped his graduate research at the University of Hull.

Throughout his career in Brazil, Chew has served as a cello professor and played a pivotal role in the country's classical landscape as the director of the Rio International Cello Encounter. His critical acclaim includes a Latin Grammy nomination for Best Classical Album in 2006 for his recording Brazilian Fantasy, as well as international awards for his interpretations of Villa-Lobos's Bachianas Brasileiras. He has frequently collaborated with notable Brazilian musicians and ensembles, including performances alongside acclaimed cellist Antonio Meneses and harpsichordist Rosana Lanzelotte.

In recognition of his significant cultural contributions and musical bridge-building in South America, Chew was honored with the Order of the British Empire by Princess Anne in 2009. He remains one of the most active and influential cellists working in Brazil, continuing to perform and promote both European classical traditions and Brazilian masterpieces. His extensive work with string quartets and chamber orchestras has cemented his legacy in Brazilian musical culture alongside contemporaries dedicated to classical preservation.