Nó em Pingo d'Água

Origin

Rio de Janeiro, RJ

Years active

1979

Genres

choro, samba, instrumental, MPB

Instruments

pandeiro, cavaquinho, seven-string guitar, acoustic guitar, flute, mandolin, bass guitar

Biography

Founded in Rio de Janeiro in 1979, Nó em Pingo d'Água is one of Brazil's most respected instrumental ensembles, specializing in the genres of choro and samba. The group emerged during a revival of instrumental music in Brazil, initially featuring musicians such as Celsinho Silva, Mário Sève, and Jorge Simas. Over the decades, they became renowned for their sophisticated arrangements and technical mastery, serving both as a standalone concert act and as a prestigious backing band for legendary vocalists.

The ensemble has a long history of collaboration with icons of MPB, including Paulinho da Viola, Elizeth Cardoso, Ivan Lins, and Moraes Moreira. Their critical success was cemented in 1989 when they received the Sharp Award for Best Instrumental Group. Their discography often pays homage to the masters of Brazilian music; for example, the 1992 album 'Receita de Samba' was dedicated to the repertoire of mandolin master Jacob do Bandolim, while their 2003 release focused entirely on the works of Paulinho da Viola, featuring the composer himself.

In addition to interpreting classics, Nó em Pingo d'Água has made significant contributions to the modern choro repertoire with original compositions, particularly on the 1999 album 'Nó na Garganta.' With tours spanning the United States and Europe, the group has played a vital role in internationalizing Brazilian instrumental music. In recent years, they celebrated four decades of activity, continuing to evolve their sound with new members like mandolinist Tiago Souza while maintaining the core excellence that defines their legacy.