Paulo Sérgio Santos

Origin

Rio de Janeiro, RJ

Also known as

Paulo Sérgio Cunha dos Santos

Years active

1977

Genres

choro, mpb, jazz, classical, latin

Instruments

clarinet, saxophone

Biography

Paulo Sérgio Santos is a distinguished Brazilian clarinetist and saxophonist, celebrated for his virtuosic command of both classical and popular music genres. Born in 1958, Santos honed his skills through rigorous academic training, studying under notable figures like José Botelho and Jayoleno dos Santos at the Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro. His early career saw him rise to prominence as the principal clarinetist of the Orquestra Sinfônica do Teatro Municipal do Rio de Janeiro, a position he held from 1977 to 1995. This period also included his participation in the World Philharmonic Orchestra, conducted by Lorin Maazel, where he performed as a soloist.

Beyond his classical achievements, Santos has made significant contributions to the Brazilian popular music scene, particularly in the realm of choro. His passion for choro and his ability to blend classical technique with the improvisational spirit of Brazilian music have earned him widespread acclaim. He has collaborated with numerous renowned Brazilian artists, including Turíbio Santos, Sivuca, and João Carlos Assis Brasil, further cementing his status as a versatile and influential musician.

Santos's career is marked by a series of accolades and significant projects. He was a founding member of the instrumental group O Trio, alongside Maurício Carrilho and Pedro Amorim, which garnered a Sharp Award in 1994 for best instrumental group. He is also a member of the acclaimed wind ensemble Quinteto Villa-Lobos, dedicated to performing contemporary Brazilian repertoire. As a solo artist, his debut album "Segura Ele" in 1995 earned him the Sharp Award for new instrumental artist, showcasing his individual brilliance and unique musical voice.