Marcos Suzano

Born in Rio de Janeiro, the percussionist used to enjoy to rock’n’roll in his teens, until listening to a carnival bloco (percussion group) and becoming completely fascinated. Suzano proceded to buy a series of percussion instruments and started playing the surdo and cuíca. After hearing Jorginho do Pandeiro (from the choro group Época de Ouro) playing the tambourine, Suzano decided to dedicate himself to the same instrument. While studying economics at the University, Suzano used to visit Hermeto Pascoal and Radamés Gnattali. After getting his degree, Suzano focused on studying African rhythms and played in a group with Paulo Moura. He has also performed with Zizi Possi, Água de Moringa, Marisa Monte, Zé Kéti, Gilberto Gil, Lenine and others. Later on, Suzano developed his own tambourine technique, promoted through courses and workshops. In 1993, Suzano worked in collaboration with the northeastern musician Lenine, with whom he recorded the acclaimed CD "Olho de Peixe", released by the record label Velas.

Marcos Suzano's first solo album, "Sambatown" (1996), introduces new concepts of tambourine playing, by strengthening the samba-funk beat and utilizing lower pitch sounds. In 2000, he records the CD "Flash" for Trama, inserting electronic elements into his music.