Gennaro

Origin

Maribondo, AL

Also known as

Gennaro Almeida, Mestre Gennaro, Genaro

Years active

1975

Genres

forró, MPB, baião, xaxado, forró pé-de-serra

Instruments

accordion, vocals

Biography

Gennaro, born in Maribondo, Alagoas, is a celebrated accordionist, singer, and composer deeply rooted in the Brazilian forró and MPB traditions. His musical journey began at the tender age of 12 when his father gifted him his first accordion, sparking a passion that led him to become a self-taught virtuoso. By 14, he moved to Rio de Janeiro, and by 16, he was already performing professionally in bars and events.

His career gained significant momentum in 1975 when Marinês, the renowned "Queen of Xaxado," invited him to join her band. This pivotal experience led to a recording contract with CBS, where he released three LPs, including the instrumental hit "Forró Pifando." In the early 1980s, Gennaro was invited by Luiz Gonzaga, the "King of Baião," to accompany him during the São João festivities. Subsequently, he became a key member of the iconic Trio Nordestino, serving as both accordionist and vocalist for 11 years, during which they released ten albums and achieved numerous hits.

After his tenure with Trio Nordestino, Gennaro embarked on a successful solo career in 1992. He later relocated to Recife, Pernambuco, where he continued to collaborate with various artists from the region. His international recognition grew, leading to performances in Europe, including France and Portugal, and participation in the film "Estradar." Gennaro's mastery of the accordion and his contributions to Brazilian music have earned him accolades such as the "Cidadão Pernambucano" title and the "Troféu Gonzagão." He is widely regarded as one of the finest accordionists in the world, representing Brazilian forró music on global stages.