Jose Briamonte

Origin

São Paulo, SP

Years Active

1956–2022

Genres

bossa nova, MPB, brazilian jazz

Instruments

piano, organ

Biography

José Briamonte was a distinguished Brazilian pianist, arranger, conductor, and composer, born in São Paulo in 1931 and passing away in 2022. He graduated in piano from the Conservatory of Dramatic and Musical of São Paulo in 1956 and furthered his studies in harmony, counterpoint, orchestration, and conducting. Briamonte began his professional career in 1956 and quickly established himself as a significant figure in Brazilian popular music (MPB).

Throughout his career, Briamonte lent his arranging talents to numerous artists and projects, including albums by Simone, Toquinho & Vinicius de Moraes, Jorge Benjor, and Tom Zé. He was particularly noted for his work on the theme music for the TV Globo novela "Pigmaleão 70." His arrangements graced albums by artists such as Elizabeth, Cristina Buarque, and Vanusa, showcasing his versatility and deep understanding of Brazilian musical genres. Briamonte also led his own ensembles, such as the Sansa Trio and the Briamonte Orchestra, releasing several solo albums like "Sambeco – A música de Briamonte" (1968), "Briamonte Orchestra" (1970), and "Momentos românticos" (1982).

Briamonte's influence extended to live performances and musical direction. He conducted the musical "Brasileiro, profissão esperança" and was active in various festivals, including the III Festival de Música Popular Brasileira da TV Record. His contributions were instrumental in shaping the sound of Brazilian music for decades, leaving a rich legacy appreciated by musicians and audiences alike. His son, Miguel Briamonte, also followed in his footsteps as a maestro.

Discography

• Sambeco - A Musica de Briamonte (1968)
• Briamonte Orchestra (1970)
• Briamonte, Tania Maria, João Maria de Abreu, Paulo Roberto do Espirito Santo – Um Piano ao Cair da Tarde - Nacional - Volume 1 (1978)
• New Age Brasil (2001)
• 1982 (2022)