1941

Born in the State of Pernambuco (Northeast Brazil), Dominguinhos started his music career in his childhood, playing with his brothers in a trio called Os Três Pingüins (The 3 Penguins). At that time he could already play the 8-bass accordion, which has been his lifetime companion. At the age of 7, Luiz Gonzaga, the King of Baião (a very popular Brazilian rhythm from that region), heard the boy playing and was so impressed that he gave Dominguinhos his address in Rio de Janeiro. Six years later, when Dominguinhos moved with his family to Rio de Janeiro, he paid a visit to Luiz Gonzaga and was given an accordion by the master. In the 1950’s and 60’s, Dominguinhos made a living by playing boleros and samba-tunes at casinos, gafieiras (ballrooms), popular restaurants, night-clubs and on Radio Nacional, whose cast he joined in 1967, the year he recorded his first LP. He became well-known in the Brazilian music scene and since then he has been invited to take part in recordings and tours with Gilberto Gil, Caetano Veloso, Gal Costa, Maria Bethânia. He has also become known for his songwriting. In collaboration with Gilberto Gil, he wrote some songs, such as "Lamento Sertanejo" and "Abri a Porta". His greatest hits are "Tantas Palavras", with Chico Buarque, "De Volta para o Aconchego" (with Nando Cordel), recorded by Elba Ramalho and "Isso Aqui Tá Bom Demais". Dominguinhos has recorded over 30 albums, written movie soundtracks and consolidated his career as songwriter and accordionist. He has already won 4 Sharp awards.