Pedro Ortaça

Origin

São Luiz Gonzaga, RS

Genres

música nativista, música gaúcha, folclore

Instruments

violão, voz

Biography

Pedro Marques Ortaça, artistically known as Pedro Ortaça, was born in São Luiz Gonzaga on June 29, 1942. He stood out as one of the great exponents of Brazilian nativist music, dedicating his work to singing about the traditions of his land, the past, and the roots of the mission region of Rio Grande do Sul. Alongside important names in gaucho culture such as Jayme Caetano Braun, Cenair Maicá, and Noel Guarany, he was part of the group informally known as the Troncos Missioneiros, which were fundamental for the preservation of the musical identity of the south of the country.

Throughout his career, Pedro Ortaça recorded several notable albums, such as Mensagem dos Sete Povos, Chão Colorado, and the acclaimed collaborative album Troncos Missioneiros. His artistic and cultural contribution was widely recognized with honors, including the Vitor Mateus Teixeira Award and Doctor Honoris Causa titles granted by federal and state universities in Rio Grande do Sul. In addition to his work on stage and in the studio, he also shared his passion for traditionalist culture by hosting the program Orgulho Gaúcho alongside his family on Rádio Missioneira.

The artist passed away on May 29, 2026, in Ijuí, leaving an indelible legacy in Brazilian regional music and a family of musicians who continue his tradition, including his children Gabriel, Alberto, and Marianita Ortaça. His journey was immortalized in the nativist songbook and in tributes paid by the state government and admirers of mission culture.