Ronaldo Leite de Freitas

Origin

Rio de Janeiro, RJ

Also known as

Carioca

Years active

1979

Genres

mpb, samba, bossa nova, choro, forró

Instruments

guitar, bass, cello

Biography

Ronaldo Leite de Freitas, known professionally as Carioca, is a Brazilian guitarist, composer, arranger, and music educator born in Rio de Janeiro in 1955. His musical journey began at a young age, initially exploring rock music before delving into diverse styles and mastering his instruments. Carioca's professional career gained momentum in 1979/80 with the release of his first album, "Misterios da Amazonia." Following this, he dedicated himself to teaching music, arranging for numerous independent LPs, and composing for theater, dance, and film.

Throughout the 1980s and beyond, Carioca's work gained international recognition through constant touring in Europe. He co-founded the "Escola de Samba do Apito" with Ted Barlocher and his compositions and arrangements began to be known across continents, including Europe, Australia, Africa, Asia, and the Americas. His discography expanded to include albums such as "Luar do Sertao," "Ciranda," "7 dias 7 instrumentos, Musica," "caRIOca," "Danças de Caboclo," "Beija Flor," "In Circle," "Meeting in the Forest," and "Danças Brasileiras." The latter aimed to translate Brazilian rhythms and dances into a joyful and folkloric rendition of Brazilian music.

Carioca's music often features an instrumental approach that retains the "Brazilian soul, humor, dance, and happiness." His repertoire includes pieces like "Variações sobre um tema," "Vôo livre," "Baiao," "Maracatu," "maxice," "Bailado," "Sambando," "Forro," "Gafieira," "Quadrilha," and "Serenata." Since 1986, he has traveled extensively, performing and conducting workshops worldwide, solidifying his reputation as a versatile and influential artist in Brazilian music. He has collaborated with notable musicians such as Celio Barros and Dimos Goudaroulis.