Grupo Semente

Origin

Rio de Janeiro, RJ

Years active

1990

Genres

samba

Instruments

cavaquinho, violão, percussão, pandeiro

Biography

O Grupo Semente is a traditional Brazilian samba musical ensemble, originating in Rio de Janeiro in the late 1990s. The initial and prominent lineup features musicians João Callado on the cavaquinho, Bernardo Dantas on the acoustic guitar (violão), Mestre Trambique on percussion, Bruno Barreto on the tambourine (pandeiro) and vocals, and Marcos Esguleba on percussion.

The group initially gained prominence by establishing themselves as the backing band for singer Teresa Cristina, in addition to accompanying major names in our music history such as Paulinho da Viola, Dona Ivone Lara, and Marisa Monte. This strong connection with both the older generation (velha guarda) and the new generation of samba secured Semente a prominent space in Lapa and on stages across the country.

Throughout their trajectory of acclaimed albums and fruitful partnerships, the ensemble received the 26th Brazilian Music Award in 2015 in the Best Samba Group category. In 2014, they released their first self-titled album without Teresa Cristina, featuring special guest appearances by artists such as Diogo Nogueira and Pedro Miranda.