Biography
Toninho Ferragutti is a renowned Brazilian accordionist, composer, and arranger, widely regarded as one of the most important figures in modern Brazilian accordion music. Born in Socorro, in the countryside of São Paulo, Ferragutti was immersed in music from an early age, thanks to his father Pedro Ferragutti, a saxophonist and composer. His formative years were shaped by the vibrant local music scene, particularly the 'rodas de choro' (choro jam sessions), and he furthered his education at the Gomes Cardin Conservatory in Campinas, studying accordion with Dante D'Alonzo and harmony with Claudio Leal Ferreira. Although he initially pursued veterinary medicine at UNESP, he left academia in 1983 to dedicate himself fully to music, marking the beginning of a prolific professional career.[1][2][6]
Ferragutti's career is distinguished by his sophisticated blend of Brazilian popular music (MPB), jazz, classical, and folk genres such as choro, forró, gafieira, and chamamé. His innovative approach to the accordion has earned him critical acclaim, including Latin Grammy nominations for his albums 'Sanfonema' (2000) and 'Nem Sol, Nem Lua' (2006). He is celebrated for his dynamic performances and original compositions, which showcase a unique fusion of popular and classical elements, as well as free improvisation. Ferragutti has collaborated with a wide array of prominent artists, both Brazilian and international, and has contributed to numerous recordings, television shows, and soundtracks, solidifying his legacy as a versatile and influential musician.[1][3][6]
Beyond his solo work, Ferragutti has performed with major symphony orchestras and participated in prestigious jazz festivals across Europe and the United States. His artistry has enriched the repertoire of Brazilian music, and he continues to inspire new generations of musicians through his performances, collaborations, and dedication to the evolution of the accordion in contemporary music.[1][3][6]
Fun Facts
- Toninho Ferragutti was originally studying veterinary medicine before switching to a full-time music career, leaving university in his final year.[1]
- His album 'Sanfonema' was nominated for a Latin Grammy in 2000, and 'Nem Sol, Nem Lua' was named one of the 10 best instrumental CDs in Brazil in 2006.[1][3]
- Ferragutti is known for blending Brazilian folk genres like choro, forró, and chamamé with classical and jazz influences in his compositions.[3]
- He has performed with symphony orchestras and jazz ensembles in Brazil, Europe, and the United States, including the Maria Schneider Orchestra.[1][3]
Associated Acts
- Trio 202 - accordion, original
Musical Connections
Mentors/Influences
- Pedro Ferragutti - Father and early musical influence; saxophonist and composer who introduced Toninho to music. (Family repertoire of waltzes, choros, dobrados, marches) [Childhood]
- Dante D'Alonzo - Accordion teacher at Gomes Cardin Conservatory (Private lessons) [Early studies]
- Claudio Leal Ferreira - Harmony teacher at Gomes Cardin Conservatory (Private lessons) [Early studies]
Key Collaborators
- Maria Schneider Orchestra - Performed and recorded with the acclaimed American jazz orchestra (Live performances, jazz festivals) [2000s-present]
- Mônica Salmaso - Frequent collaborator in recordings and live performances (Concerts, CD recordings) [2000s-present]
- Gilberto Gil - Participated in recordings and shows (CDs, concerts) [1990s-2000s]
- Nelson Ayres & Ulisses Rocha (Trio 202) - Formed the Trio 202 ensemble (Album 'Trio 202', live performances) [2007]
- Celine Rudolph - Collaborated with German singer (Concerts, recordings) [2000s-present]
Artists Influenced
- Contemporary Brazilian accordionists - Ferragutti's innovative style and repertoire have inspired a new generation of accordionists in Brazil. (Modern MPB and jazz accordion recordings) [2000s-present]
Connection Network
Discography
Albums
| Title | Release Date | Type |
|---|---|---|
| Festa Na Roça | 2014-05-06 | Album |
| QuarenteMas | 2025-04-18 | Album |
| Ceumar: Sons du Brasil | 2012-10-02 | Album |
| Bia & Nino - Forró | 2004-01-01 | Album |
| Comum de Dois | 2014-05-06 | Album |
Top Tracks
- Valse d'Amelie (Verde)
- Mira Mansa
- Boiadeiro Errante (Festa Na Roça)
- Flamenta (Comum de Dois)
- Amargurado (Festa Na Roça)
- Santa Gafieira (Panorama do Choro Paulistano Contemporâneo)
- Xote (O Sol de Oslo)
- Alegria Outra Vez (QuarenteMa 8) (QuarenteMas)
- Tocando Em Frente (Encontro das Águas - Filarmônica de Violas Convida Solistas)
- Tatá Engenho Novo (O Sol de Oslo)
External Links
References
Heard on WWOZ
Toninho Ferragutti has been played 1 time on WWOZ 90.7 FM, New Orleans' jazz and heritage station.
| Date | Time | Title | Show | Spotify |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nov 8, 2025 | 15:01 | Nem Sol Nem Luafrom Sollua | Tudo Bem (Brazilian)w/ Dean Ellis |