Mestre Ze Galdino

Origin

Ferreiros, PE

Also known as

Zé Galdino, Mestre Galdino, José Galdino dos Santos

Genres

maracatu, ciranda, repente, popular poetry

Instruments

acoustic guitar

Biography

José Galdino dos Santos, known as Mestre Zé Galdino, was a prominent Pernambucan maracatu and ciranda master, born in Ferreiros, in the agreste region of the state, in 1950. His life was dedicated to the preservation and dissemination of the rich northeastern popular culture, becoming an unavoidable reference in the Zona da Mata Norte of Pernambuco and throughout the Northeast. Galdino not only led important groups such as Maracatu Estrela Dourada de Buenos Aires, but also founded Maracatu Beija Flor de Ferreiros, demonstrating his leadership and passion for tradition.

In addition to his work as a maracatu and ciranda master, Mestre Zé Galdino was an exquisite repentista and poet, whose compositions celebrated life, love, and the culture of his people. His artistic career began at age 27, and throughout his career, he won numerous repentista festivals and stood out in sambadas. His work transcended regional boundaries, influencing generations of artists and popular groups, as evidenced by tributes from musicians like Siba.

Mestre Zé Galdino passed away in 2019, at 69 years old, after complications from cancer. His departure represented a great loss for Brazilian culture, but his legacy endures through his songs, poems, and the inspiration he left for those who follow the tradition. The city halls of Ferreiros and Buenos Aires decreed official mourning in his honor, recognizing his importance to the cultural identity of the region.

Discography

• Mestre Barachinha, Mestre Zé Galdino – Os campeões de sambada (2016)