Mestre Xixa

Origin

Rio de Janeiro, RJ

Also known as

Eduardo Pinto

Years Active

1956–1976

Genres

choro, samba

Instruments

cavaquinho

Biography

Mestre Xixa, whose birth name is Eduardo Pinto, was a notable Brazilian instrumentalist and composer, with a career marked by his skill on the cavaquinho and his contribution to choro and samba. Born in Rio de Janeiro, Xixa began his musical journey in the mid-1950s, recording the choro "Lua de mel" and the bolero "Um milhão de estrelas" in 1956, both of which he wrote. His compositions gained prominence when they were performed by other artists, such as Heleninha Silveira and Neide Fraga. Throughout his career, Mestre Xixa also performed with his ensemble, recording classics of samba and choro on LPs, demonstrating his versatility and deep knowledge of these musical genres. His work, although not extensive, is a testament to the richness and diversity of Brazilian popular music.

His work as an instrumentalist, especially on the cavaquinho, brought him into contact with other great names in Brazilian music. In 1959, his choro "Primeiro amor, saudade", in partnership with Valdir Cardoso, was recorded by Bernardo do Cavaquinho. In 1964, he released the LP "Sambas – Conjunto de Xixa", where he interpreted sambas by renowned composers such as Ary Barroso and Noel Rosa, in addition to his own creations. This recording is a milestone in his discography, featuring arrangements that celebrate the tradition of Rio de Janeiro samba. Mestre Xixa also participated in collective projects, such as an LP released in 1976 by the Marcus Pereira label, alongside Theo de Barros and Hector Costita, showing his ability to dialogue with different artists and styles.

Although information about his personal life is scarce, Mestre Xixa is remembered for his dedication to music. His work, focused on recordings and compositions, solidified his name in the Brazilian popular music scene, especially in the universe of choro and samba. He is an example of an artist who, with his talent and passion, contributed to Brazil's rich musical tapestry, leaving a legacy that deserves to be rediscovered and appreciated.