Zé Paulo Becker

Origin

Rio de Janeiro, RJ

Years active

1990–2024

Genres

brazilian jazz, choro, bossa nova, samba, mpb

Instruments

acoustic guitar, 7-string guitar, guitar

Biography

Zé Paulo Becker is a highly acclaimed Brazilian guitarist and composer, born on December 11, 1968, in Rio de Janeiro. He began his musical journey at the age of 10, initially dedicating 12 years to classical guitar studies. Becker later transitioned to popular Brazilian music, developing a unique style that blends jazz, choro, and bossa nova.

Throughout his career, Becker has released numerous albums, both as a solo artist and with the renowned choro group Trio Madeira Brasil. He has collaborated with a vast array of prominent Brazilian musicians, including Ney Matogrosso, Elza Soares, Chico Buarque, and Yamandú Costa. His compositions often feature partnerships with lyricists like Paulo César Pinheiro and Aldir Blanc, and his work has been recognized with awards such as the Prêmio da Música Brasileira in 2011.

Beyond his performance and composition work, Zé Paulo Becker is also an accomplished author and educator. He has published books on guitar techniques and Brazilian rhythms, such as "O violão na roda de choro" and "Levadas Brasileiras." He holds a Master's degree in guitar and is a professor at the Federal University of Juiz de Fora, sharing his extensive knowledge and contributing to the preservation and evolution of Brazilian instrumental music.