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Jacob do Bandolim born Jacob Pick Bittencourt (February 14, 1918 – August 13, 1969)was a Brazilian composer and musician. Born to a Brazilian-Jewish mother and a gentile father in Rio de Janeiro, his stage name means “Mandolin Jacob”, referring to his instrument he played. A perfectionist, Jacob was able to achieve with his band Época de Ouro the highest levels of quality. Jacob hated the stereotype of the “disheveled, drunk folk musician” and required commitment and impeccable dress from his musicians who, like himself, all held “day jobs.” Jacob worked as a pharmacist, insurance salesman, street vendor, and finally notary public, to support himself while also working “full time” as a musician. In addition to his virtuoso playing, he is famous for his many choro compositions, more than 103 tunes, which range from the lyrical melodies of “Noites Cariocas” (“Carioca Nights”), “Receita de Samba” and “Dôce de Coco” to the aggressively jazzy “Assanhado”, which is reminiscent of bebop. He also researched and attempted to preserve the older choro tradition, as well as that of other Brazilian music styles.

by Madalena Sousa