Trio Carioca

Origin

Rio de Janeiro, RJ

Years active

1936–1937

Genres

choro, jazz, popular music

Instruments

piano, clarinet, drums

Biography

The Trio Carioca was a Brazilian musical group formed in 1936 by Radamés Gnattali, Luciano Perrone, and Luiz Americano. The trio was conceived by Mr. Evans, director of RCA Victor, who aimed to create a Brazilian ensemble in the vein of Benny Goodman's famous trio, featuring clarinet, piano, and drums, but without a double bass. Radamés Gnattali, a prominent figure in Brazilian music, led the group on piano, with Perrone on drums and Americano on clarinet. The ensemble was known for its sophisticated arrangements, all composed by Gnattali himself. Despite their brief existence, the Trio Carioca left a significant mark on Brazilian music, recording a single 78 rpm record in 1937. This recording included the choro "Recordando," composed by Gnattali under the pseudonym "Vero." The use of a pseudonym was a common practice at the time for classical musicians venturing into popular music, with "Vero" being a nod to Gnattali's wife, Vera. The trio's work showcased a unique blend of popular Brazilian styles with classical sensibilities, contributing to the rich tapestry of instrumental music in Brazil during that era. Their legacy, though limited in recordings, is celebrated for its artistic merit and innovative approach to chamber jazz within a Brazilian context. The group's output, while scarce, is highly valued by collectors and music historians for its representation of a pivotal moment in Brazilian instrumental music.