Come for a rare treat as Brazilian musicians Amilton Godoy and flutist Léa Freire of São Paulo, Brazil offer a swinging afternoon of music!

They represent the best of their respective generations. Delightful original compositions bridge the gap between beloved Brazilian styles (such as samba and choro) and modern chamber music. The duo will also be joined joined by members of Berkeley Choro Ensemble for some ensemble selections. Berkeley Choro Ensemble includes Jane Lenoir, flute, Harvey Wainapel, clarinet, Ricardo Peixoto, 7-string guitar, and Brian Rice, percussion.

See them in action here and here.

About the artists

Pianist/composer/arranger/educator Amilton Godoy is from the state of São Paulo. He has won important awards and competitions throughout his career. With Luiz Chaves (bass) and Rubens Barsotti (drums), Godoy formed the renowned and influential Zimbo Trio, which has made 51 recordings and performed in over 40 countries. The Zimbo Trio’s 49-year career has increased recognition of Brazilian instrumental music throughout the world.

Flutist/pianist/composer Léa Freire is a major force in the Brazilian music world. A versatile composer, Léa released her first CD, “Ninhal,” in 1997, on her label Maritaca. Many CDs followed, including “Cartas Brasileiras,” (2007) with her symphonic arrangements for 62 musicians in various formations, a contemporary overview of Brazilian instrumental music. In October, 2017, her record label Maritaca celebrates 20 years of producing many of Brazil's outstanding artists.

The Berkeley Choro Ensemble, formed in 2010, has dedicated itself to the performance of newer choro works and collaborations with Brazilian performers and composers. Flutist and founder Jane Lenoir, clarinetist Harvey Wainapel, guitarist Ricardo Peixoto and percussionist Brian Rice have been actively promoting the advancement of this great genre via performances, workshops, and the annual choro festival. Wainapel and Peixoto have both contributed several original choros to the ensemble’s repertoire. www.berkeleychoroensemble.com