Fausto Canova

Origin

Marília, SP

Also known as

Fausto Augusto Battistete

Years active

1950s–2000s

Genres

mpb, choro, jazz, brazilian instrumental music, american music

Biography

Fausto Augusto Battistete, artistically known as Fausto Canova, was a prominent figure in Brazilian radio and television, born in Marília, São Paulo, on November 28, 1930. His career spanned decades, leaving his mark on major São Paulo broadcasters such as Rádio Tupi, Excelsior, Jovem Pan, Gazeta, Trianon, Bandeirantes, and Cultura. Canova was recognized for his deep musical knowledge and striking voice, which made him a respected presenter and music critic. His work on Rádio Bandeirantes in 1962 earned him the Roquette Pinto Award, and in 1969, the São Paulo State Governor's Award for best radio presenter.

In addition to his career in radio, Fausto Canova also left his mark on television, having been one of the founders of TV Cultura in its public phase. He hosted programs such as "Opção" on TV Gazeta and broadcast the "Festival do Choro – Brasileirinho" on TV Bandeirantes. His musical expertise led him to be a juror at important events, such as TV Record's "Festival da Música Popular Brasileira" in 1969, which consecrated Paulinho da Viola, and the first APCA Music Award in 1972, where he also served as director between 1974 and 1975.

Canova cherished a great appreciation for Brazilian instrumental music, especially choro, as well as American music. Although he tried his hand as a crooner, his passion and talent were consolidated in the roles of presenter, critic, and musicologist. His final station was Rádio Cultura AM in São Paulo, where he hosted programs like "Brasil Pandeiro" and "O som do jazz". Fausto Canova passed away on January 3, 2009, at the age of 78, in Avaré, in the interior of São Paulo, leaving a significant legacy for Brazilian communication and music.