Hermeto Pascoal, the wizard of jazz, dies at 89

Composer and multi-instrumentalist Hermeto Pascoal died this Saturday, the 13th, at the age of 89. His family confirmed the news in a post on the musician's official social media channels. He had been hospitalized since August 30th at Samaritano Barra Hospital in Rio de Janeiro due to respiratory complications caused by pulmonary fibrosis.

According to a medical report, his condition worsened in recent days and progressed to multiple organ failure. The death ends the career of one of the most inventive and original figures in Brazilian music, internationally recognized for his improvisation and fusion of genres such as jazz, forró, choro, and classical music.

Born in Lagoa da Canoa, in the rural region of Alagoas, on June 22, 1936, Hermeto began playing music as a child. Albino, he struggled to attend school and found a way to express himself through music. Throughout his career, he became known as "Bruxo" (Wizard) for his ability to transform any object into a sound instrument, from kettles to toys to sounds of nature.

His discography includes landmark works such as A Música Livre de Hermeto Pascoal (1973), Slaves Mass (1977), and Hermeto Pascoal e Grupo (1982). Alongside artists such as Airto Moreira, Egberto Gismonti, and Vinicius Dorin, he consolidated a body of work that transcended borders and influenced musicians of several generations.

Recognition also came from abroad. Hermeto was celebrated by North American jazz figures and performed at major international festivals, while maintaining a strong connection to his Brazilian folk roots. His music has been described by critics as "universal" for its breadth of references and experimentation.

In a statement, the family requested that the farewell be marked by celebration rather than sadness. They recommended that, in honor of the artist, people listen to the wind, the birds, and the running water and transform these sounds into music—a gesture that symbolizes the legacy left by Hermeto Pascoal.