Lúcio do Cavaquinho

Origin

Rio Pardo, RS

Years active

1945–2004

Genres

choro, samba

Instruments

cavaquinho, acoustic guitar, violin, banjo, accordion

Biography

Lúcio Araújo de Quadros, known as Lúcio do Cavaquinho, was born in Rio Pardo, Rio Grande do Sul, on October 18, 1936. He began his musical studies at nine years of age, showing a remarkable talent from an early age for the cavaquinho, an instrument that would become his trademark. His career in Brazilian music is marked by a deep dedication to choro and samba, genres he helped spread and enrich with his virtuosity.

In 1959, he moved to Porto Alegre, where he consolidated his career as a musician and music producer. He was one of the founders and the first president of the Clube do Choro de Porto Alegre, an entity that became an important hub for the preservation and promotion of choro in southern Brazil. Throughout his career, he played alongside great names in Brazilian popular music, such as Túlio Piva, Nelson Gonçalves, Altamiro Carrilho, Jamelão, and Beth Carvalho, recording several LPs and a solo CD featuring his compositions.

Lúcio do Cavaquinho also worked as an artistic director and producer for various nightclubs in Porto Alegre, contributing to the city's cultural vibrancy. In recognition of his legacy, he received the title of Emeritus Citizen of Porto Alegre in 1991 and the Lupicínio Rodrigues Trophy in 1997. He passed away in Porto Alegre on February 9, 2004, leaving behind a rich body of work and an invaluable legacy for Brazilian music.