Itiberê Orquestra Família

Origin

São Paulo, SP

Years Active

1999

Genres

jazz, fusion, funk, brazilian instrumental music, progressive rock, universal music

Instruments

acoustic bass, electric bass, acoustic guitar, electric guitar, piano, melodica, western concert flute, piccolo, bass flute, clarinet, bass clarinet, soprano saxophone, alto saxophone, tenor saxophone, trumpet, mellophone, trombone, violin, viola, cello, drums, percussion, cavaquinho, mandolin, accordion, rabeca, viola nordestina, vocals

Biography

Itiberê Orquestra Família is a Brazilian musical collective founded in 1999 by the renowned bassist, composer, and arranger Itiberê Zwarg. Born in São Paulo in 1950, Itiberê Zwarg is known for his long and fruitful collaboration with Hermeto Pascoal, joining his group in 1977 and also acting as his arranger. The orchestra emerged from Universal Music workshops taught by Zwarg, bringing together young musicians with the goal of exploring and expanding the limits of Brazilian instrumental music.

The sound of Itiberê Orquestra Família is often described as "universal music," a concept developed by Hermeto Pascoal that blends jazz fusion, funk, Brazilian folkloric rhythms, and elements of progressive rock. Unlike a traditional orchestra, the group frequently works without sheet music, guided by Itiberê Zwarg's "real-time creation," where compositions and arrangements are developed during rehearsals, allowing the musicians' active participation in the creative process. This approach fosters a sound rich in harmony, melody, and rhythm, highlighting the versatility and individual talent of each member.

Throughout its trajectory, Itiberê Orquestra Família has released acclaimed albums such as "Pedra do Espia" (2001), considered a classic of Brazilian instrumental music, "Calendário do Som" (2005), which features compositions by Hermeto Pascoal, and "Contrastes" (2009). The group has performed in several renowned cultural spaces throughout Brazil and has also expanded its work internationally, with projects like the Itiberê Orquestra Família from France, reinforcing its commitment to spreading Brazilian music and training new musical talents.

Discography

• Pedra Do Espia (2001)
• Calendário do Som (2005)
• Contrastes (2009)