Fernando Sodré

Origin

Minas Gerais, MG

Years Active

2006–2025

Genres

brazilian instrumental, choro, jazz, baião, flamenco, brazilian popular music

Instruments

brazilian viola, 10-string viola, 14-string viola

Biography

Fernando Sodré is a Brazilian viola player, composer, arranger, and music producer, recognized for his refined technique and unique style on the Brazilian viola. Born in Minas Gerais, he stands out for pioneering new possibilities for the instrument, traditionally associated with caipira music, by exploring dialogues with genres such as choro, jazz, baião, and flamenco. His innovative approach has established him as an "alchemist" of the viola, universalizing it and demonstrating its versatility.

His musical career gained momentum starting in 2006, with the release of his first CD of original compositions, collaborations, and reworkings. The following year, he released "Rio de Contraste", an album that featured guest appearances by renowned musicians such as Daniel Santiago, Thiago do Espírito Santo, Gabriel Grossi, and Hamilton de Holanda. Sodré also developed an innovative instrument, the "14-string viola", in partnership with Hootz Lutheria, further expanding his sonic possibilities.

Throughout his career, Fernando Sodré has shared the stage and collaborated with several renowned artists in Brazilian instrumental music, including Hamilton de Holanda, Toninho Horta, Almir Sater, Roberto Correa, and Juarez Moreira. His work transcends music, having also held public positions, such as director-general of the Secretariat of Tourism of Rio Grande do Sul.

Discography

• Fernando Sodré (2006)