Maurício Tizumba

Origin

Belo Horizonte, MG

Years active

1973

Genres

mpb, folklore, afro-brazilian music

Instruments

percussion, guitar, voice

Biography

Mauricio Tizumba is a celebrated Brazilian multi-instrumentalist, singer, songwriter, actor, and cultural entrepreneur whose artistic career spans several decades since its inception in 1973. Hailing from the state of Minas Gerais, he has established himself as one of the region's most prominent cultural figures, deeply rooted in Afro-Brazilian traditions and heavily influenced by the cultural expressions of the congado. Throughout his prolific career, he has released notable albums such as Marasmo, Caras e Caretas, and Africa Gerais, while also making significant contributions to theater, television, and film.

As an innovative cultural organizer, Tizumba co-founded the renowned street theater troupe Companhia Burlantins in 1996 and established the traditional percussion group Tambor Mineiro. His creative endeavors extend into social initiatives, notably creating the Meninos de Minas project to mentor at-risk youth through percussion and recycled instrument building. Critics and journalists have frequently compared his versatile stage presence and acting prowess to legendary figures like Grande Otelo, highlighting his remarkable ability to connect with audiences.

In addition to his musical output, Tizumba has built a distinguished acting career across television, cinema, and stage productions. He has appeared in major television works such as the Rede Globo telenovela Saramandaia and the SBT program O... Coitado!, alongside feature films like Narradores de Dave. His enduring artistic contributions continue to celebrate and preserve the rich heritage of Afro-Brazilian music and performance arts alongside contemporaries who champion similar cultural roots.