Musician Hermeto Pascoal died this Saturday (13) at the age of 89. He was one of the greatest names in Brazilian instrumental music and internationally recognized for his genius and sonic innovation.
The news was confirmed by the artist’s official social media accounts, where an emotional message was posted:
“With serenity and love, we announce that Hermeto Pascoal has passed to the spiritual plane, surrounded by family and musical companions.”
According to a statement from Hospital Samaritano Barra, the musician died at 8:22 pm due to complications from advanced pulmonary fibrosis.
“The composer was admitted to the hospital on August 30 for treatment of respiratory complications stemming from advanced pulmonary fibrosis. Despite all therapeutic support, his condition worsened in the final hours, progressing to multiple organ failure.”
Wake
The artist’s wake will be held this Monday (15) at Areninha Cultural Hermeto Pascoal, in Bangu, Rio de Janeiro. The ceremony will be open to the public from 2 pm to 9 pm.
Biography
Born in 1936 in the small town of Lagoa da Canoa, in the interior of Alagoas, Hermeto Pascoal was self-taught. He began playing accordion and flute in childhood, and by age 15 he was already a professional musician, moving with his brother to Recife in search of opportunities.
Considered a genius of experimental music, Hermeto became known for transforming everyday sounds into art—from the noise of water to the breath of the wind.
His career crossed borders, with international collaborations and worldwide recognition. Throughout his life, he received numerous awards, including the Latin Grammy, which he won on three occasions.
In 2024, at 88 years old, he released the album of unpublished songs Pra você, Ilza, a tribute to his wife Ilza da Silva, with whom he was married for more than 40 years. Together, they had six children. Hermeto also leaves behind 13 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren.
Artists and Authorities Pay Tribute to the Musician
Brazil bids farewell to one of its greatest musical geniuses. Composer and multi-instrumentalist Hermeto Pascoal—an indisputable reference in Brazilian and world music—passed away at 89, leaving a legacy that spans generations and borders.
In response to the news, expressions of grief flooded social media from artists, authorities, and admirers who see in Hermeto a unique, unclassifiable, and revolutionary figure.
President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva paid an emotional tribute on social media:
“Brazilian music and culture owe much to Hermeto Pascoal, who left us this Saturday, the 13th, at 89 years old. The talent and tireless creativity of this Alagoan from Arapiraca consecrated him internationally and influenced generations of musicians around the world.”
Culture Minister Margareth Menezes also spoke out, posting a photo of herself hugging the musician and describing him as “a generous master who transformed Brazilian music into sonic alchemy.”
Among the artists paying tribute to Hermeto, Caetano Veloso recorded a video on his Instagram account. In it, he recalled songs dedicated to the master and spoke about his interactions with him:
“Hermeto is a pinnacle of music in Brazil, one of the highest points in the history of music in Brazil, and he presented himself to the world with great clarity and strength. I knew him and put his name in at least two of my songs, and I even had a public discussion with him. But what matters is his musical greatness,” said Caetano, in a respectful tone.
Singer Zélia Duncan called Hermeto an “absolute master” and defined him as “the favorite son of the goddess music,” in clear reverence to his intuitive and inventive genius.
Pianist and composer Leila Pinheiro recalled the song Chá de Panela, a partnership with Aldir Blanc that pays homage to Hermeto:
“This song is a tribute to Hermeto’s genius, who always showed us how to make music an extension of the spirit itself.”
Source: Agência Brasil