Hélder Viana

Origin

Oliveira, MG

Years Active

1978

Genres

MPB, samba, congado

Instruments

percussion, guitar, vocals

Biography

Hélder Viana, born September 11, 1963, in Oliveira, Minas Gerais, is a multifaceted Brazilian artist known for his work as a singer, composer, instrumentalist, and visual artist. He hails from a traditional family of congadeiros, with his great-grandmother, Maria Cirilo, being a significant figure as the "Rainha Conga" of Carmópolis, Minas Gerais. Viana's artistic journey began in 1978 at the "Festival da Canção de Oliveira." He later moved to Belo Horizonte, where he studied percussion and guitar and participated in the "I Seminário Brasileiro da Música Instrumental" in 1986, an event conceived by Toninho Horta. His formal musical education includes studies at the Universidade de Música do Estado de Minas Gerais (UEMG), from which he graduated in 2002, and a postgraduate degree in Baroque Culture and Art.

Viana's career as a percussionist has seen him collaborate with various bands, including the instrumental group Nhoc, and perform in theatrical productions such as "Zumbi" and "Os Saltimbancos." His solo career gained momentum with the release of his first CD, "Cabrália," in 2001, which featured collaborations with notable musicians like Chico Amaral and Celso Moreira. The album received praise, including from Milton Nascimento. In 2006, he launched "Cabrália" in Rio de Janeiro through a series of shows in prominent cultural venues.

Beyond his musical endeavors, Viana is also a visual artist, having exhibited his paintings. His artistic versatility is further demonstrated by his academic background, holding a degree in Music and a postgraduate degree in Baroque Culture and Art. He has also been recognized for his songwriting, winning the "1º Festival do Tribunal de Justiça de Minas Gerais" with the composition "Búzios." Viana's work often draws from his rich cultural heritage, particularly the congado traditions of Minas Gerais, blending them with contemporary musical influences.

Discography

• Cabrália (2003)