Brazilian Music Legend Hermeto Pascoal Dies at 89

Hermeto Pascoal, the influential Brazilian composer and multi-instrumentalist, passed away at the age of 89. Known as ‘the wizard’ of Brazilian music, Pascoal was renowned for blending jazz with traditional Brazilian sounds. He was largely self-taught and began his musical career as a child in rural Brazil. His music spanned genres, and he played several instruments, including the piano, flute, saxophone, and guitar, often incorporating unconventional elements like household objects. Pascoal’s debut album, *Slaves Mass*, was recorded in 1976 and included a live pig in the studio. Despite being celebrated by jazz legends like Miles Davis, Pascoal rejected the label of jazz musician, crediting his work to Brazilian genres like chorinho and samba. He continued composing and recording into his 80s. Pascoal’s family announced his death on social media and encouraged fans to honor him by letting a single note ring out, symbolizing his lifelong musical contributions.