Olivia Byington

Olívia Byington stands out as a decorated Brazilian vocalist whose collaborations have encompassed Tom Jobim, Silvio Rodriguez, Djavan, Clara Sverner, Wagner Tiso, Chico Buarque, Turíbio Santos, Radamés Gnattali, João Carlos Assis Brasil, Paulo Moura, and Egberto Gismonti. Among the highlights of her recorded output is A Dama do Encantado, an album devoted to the repertoire of Aracy de Almeida, widely regarded as one of the foremost interpreters of Noel Rosa’s songs. During her early years she trained on piano, violin, and classical guitar. In 1977 she joined forces with Jacques Morelenbaum to establish the ensemble Antena Coletiva. The following year saw the release of her debut album, Corra O Risco, issued by Continental. Critics named her the decade’s outstanding vocalist in 1979. Recognition grew after she appeared with A Barca do Sol, an association that soon led to further engagements with Tom Jobim, Wagner Tiso, Chico Buarque, Turíbio Santos, Radamés Gnattali, João Carlos Assis Brasil, Paulo Moura, and Egberto Gismonti. Chico Buarque extended an invitation for her to appear in Cuba in 1981. The next year, at Silvio Rodriguez’s urging, she captured her third album, Identidad, on the island. In 1983 she contributed to the soundtrack of the film Para Viver um Grande Amor alongside Djavan and Tom Jobim. The subsequent year brought the recording of Encontro (Kuarup) with Paulo Moura, Clara Sverner, and Turíbio Santos, an effort that earned the Chiquinha Gonzaga trophy. She joined João Carlos Assis Brasil for a nationwide tour in 1990. Byington has sustained an active schedule of solo appearances and joint projects with leading figures, including a 1995 circuit through Portugal and Italy.