Nando Chagas

Origin

Rio de Janeiro, RJ

Years Active

1977

Genres

MPB, choro, samba, jazz, rock

Instruments

bandolim, guitar, keyboard

Biography

Nando Chagas is a Brazilian musician, composer, arranger, and producer, born in Rio de Janeiro in 1959. His musical journey began in his youth, influenced by his father's appreciation for jazz and bossa nova. At 17, he discovered the bandolim, an instrument that would become central to his career, and by 19, he was already performing professionally in the choro and samba scenes.

Throughout his extensive career, Nando Chagas has collaborated with a wide array of prominent Brazilian artists, including Clementina de Jesus, Xangô da Mangueira, Joyce, Gilberto Gil, Baby Consuelo, Leila Pinheiro, and Gabriel O Pensador, among many others. His work as an instrumentalist and arranger has also extended to film, theater, and advertising, contributing to numerous soundtracks and jingles for major national and international clients.

Nando Chagas has released several instrumental albums, such as "Arpoador" with his trio, and "Rio Lounge," "NU Samba," and "Sambaville" with his group Mulato Beat, which have found audiences in Europe and Japan. He has also been recognized for his arranging skills, receiving awards like the Prêmio BTG Pactual da Música Brasileira for Best Arranger in both 1992 and 1993. His influences range from Brazilian legends like Jacob do Bandolim and Tom Jobim to international jazz icons such as Miles Davis and John Coltrane, showcasing a rich and diverse musical palette.

Discography

• Arpoador (2000)
• Os Pantaneiros - Trilha Sonora Original do Filme