Índio do Cavaquinho

Origin

Mata Grande, AL

Also known as

Edinaldo Vieira Lima

Years active

1936–2000

Genres

choro, samba

Instruments

cavaquinho

Biography

Edinaldo Vieira Lima, widely known as Índio do Cavaquinho, was a celebrated Brazilian cavaquinho player and composer. Born in Mata Grande, Alagoas, on June 20, 1924, he displayed an early passion for music, receiving his first cavaquinho at the age of eight. His professional career began in Delmiro Gouveia, Alagoas, where he performed with various bands and vocal groups. By 1936, at just 15 years old, he was already a member of the Jazz Banda de Delmiro Gouveia. He later joined the group Ases do Demônio and performed on Rádio Difusora de Sergipe.

In 1945, Índio do Cavaquinho moved to Rio de Janeiro, the then capital of Brazil, immersing himself in the vibrant carioca music scene. He quickly became a sought-after accompanist, working with renowned artists such as Ataulfo Alves, Orlando Silva, Cartola, Synval Silva, Geraldo Pereira, and Ciro Monteiro. He also led his own ensemble, featuring notable musicians like Arthur Duarte on 7-string guitar. His first record was released in 1950 by the Star label, and he continued to record prolifically throughout the following decades, including numerous 78 rpm records, LPs, and his first CD in 2000.

Índio do Cavaquinho's musical journey included a significant period at Rádio Nacional from 1952 to 1974. He was recognized for his skill as both a soloist and an accompanist, earning him the reputation of being "one of the most complete" cavaquinho players in Brazilian popular music. His contributions extended to composing, leaving behind around 40 original pieces. He also represented Brazil at the Festival Mundial de Arte Negra in 1966. Índio do Cavaquinho passed away in Rio de Janeiro in 2003, leaving a rich legacy in the choro and samba traditions of Brazil.