Renato Andrade

Origin

Abaeté, MG

Years active

1950–2005

Genres

instrumental music, caipira music

Instruments

viola caipira, violin

Biography

Renato Andrade was a prominent Brazilian musician, composer, and instrumentalist, widely regarded as one of the greatest masters of the traditional Brazilian viola caipira. Born in Abaeté, Minas Gerais, he moved to Belo Horizonte in his youth to study the violin under family influence. Upon returning to his hometown, he became captivated by the sound of the regional viola and dedicated his life entirely to perfecting the instrument.

Renato Andrade became a true virtuoso who brilliantly bridged classical music and popular rural traditions, successfully introducing the viola caipira into formal concert halls. Throughout his celebrated career, he recorded notable albums such as his 1977 debut "A Fantástica Viola de Renato Andrade" and "Viola de Queluz," alongside collaborating with significant artists like Taiguara, Almir Sater, and Roberto Corrêa. His innovative playing and deep respect for Brazilian roots cemented his legacy in instrumental music.

After battling lung cancer, Andrade returned to his hometown of Abaeté to spend his final days surrounded by family, passing away at the age of 73 in 2005. His profound contributions to the appreciation of the viola caipira continue to inspire generations of musicians in the country, earning him a revered status among traditional Brazilian instrumentalists.