K-Ximbinho

Origin

Taipu, RN

Also known as

Sebastião de Barros

Years active

1938–1980

Genres

jazz, choro, samba-jazz, música instrumental

Instruments

clarinete, saxofone

Biography

Sebastião de Barros, artistically known as K-Ximbinho, was a renowned Brazilian composer, arranger, clarinetist, saxophonist, and conductor. Born in Taipu, Rio Grande do Norte, on January 20, 1917, K-Ximbinho showed an interest in music from childhood, beginning his studies in clarinet and music theory in his hometown. His musical career flourished in Rio de Janeiro, where he became a prominent figure in the Brazilian music scene, especially in the 1950s and 1960s.

K-Ximbinho had a notable career in jazz and choro, being recognized for his originality and for modernizing these genres. He was one of the pioneers in fusing jazz elements with choro and samba, creating what would come to be known as "samba-jazz" or "jazzy choro". His skill as an instrumentalist and arranger led him to participate in important orchestras, such as Severino Araújo's Orquestra Tabajara, maestro Fon-Fon's orchestra, and the National Symphony Orchestra of Rádio MEC. His work includes iconic compositions like "Sonoroso", "Eu quero é sossego", and "Sonhando", which became classics of the Brazilian instrumental repertoire.

In addition to his career as an instrumentalist and arranger, K-Ximbinho left a legacy as a composer, with around 40 recorded works. His music is celebrated for its sophistication and its ability to evoke the atmosphere of Rio de Janeiro at the time. In 1980, he participated in the recording of the LP "Saudades de um clarinete", bringing together his compositions arranged by himself and interpreted by great musicians, such as Raphael Rabello and Paulo Sérgio Santos. K-Ximbinho passed away on June 26, 1980, in Rio de Janeiro, leaving an invaluable contribution to Brazilian popular music.