Biography
Manezinho da Flauta began flute studies at age five and soon appeared in amateur contests broadcast by Rádio Tupi in Rio de Janeiro around 1930. He turned professional at fifteen, securing a contract with Rádio Guanabara and, the following year, a position with the Farolito Danças orchestra. In 1961 he traveled through France, England, and Belgium alongside Humberto Teixeira, who was promoting the baião abroad. Two years later he joined the celebrated samba gatherings held at Cartola’s Zicartola bar in 1963 and 1964. His debut solo album, O Melhor dos Chorinhos, appeared in 1967. He also contributed to the landmark anthology Gente da Antiga with Pixinguinha, Clementina de Jesus, and João da Baiana. One further historic undertaking found him recording the Marcus Pereira album Brasil, Flauta, Bandolim e Violão as a member of Evandro’s regional ensemble.