Orquestra Sanfônica de São Paulo

Origin

São Paulo, SP

Years Active

1988

Genres

instrumental music, música popular brasileira, classical music

Biography

The Orquestra Sanfônica de São Paulo is a pioneering musical formation in Brazil, dedicated exclusively to the accordion (sanfona). Officially founded on April 6, 1988 by conductor Renata Sbrighi, the orchestra has its roots in earlier work by her mother, Elvira Sbrighi, who as early as the 1950s promoted performances with large groups of accordionists. The orchestra is composed of 36 accordions, in addition to percussionists, bass, electric guitar, double bass, and drums, and is capable of reproducing the timbres of various symphonic instruments, such as saxophone, violin, and oboe.

With a repertoire that spans classical and popular music, the Orquestra Sanfônica de São Paulo seeks to rescue and promote lesser-known Brazilian musical genres, such as maxixe, guarânia, and chorinho, in addition to interpreting waltzes, polkas, marches, forró, samba, and sertanejo. The orchestra has performed in various cities across Brazil and was invited to participate in the International Accordion Contest and Festival in Castelfidardo, Italy, where it achieved prominent positions in editions of the festival.

Conductor Renata Sbrighi, who also acts as the principal accordionist, is the conductor and main driving force of the orchestra. The Orquestra Sanfônica de São Paulo plays an important role in spreading Brazilian instrumental music featuring the accordion, showcasing the versatility and rich sound of this instrument.

Discography

• Na Itália Ao Vivo 2013 (2013)