Brazilian legend drawn back to Malta

Born in Minas Gerais, songwriter, composer, singer, guitarist João Bosco was brought to Rio de Janeiro by the poet Vinicius de Moraes. In Rio, he was introduced to Tom Jobim, to ‘Bossa Nova’, to Chico Buarque, and many other important Brazilian musicians. During the ‘70s Bosco met poet Aldir Blanc, and together they composed a vast repertoire, most of what are now considered Brazilian popular music classics.

Currently Bosco is working with his new partner and son, Francisco Bosco, a young intellectual poet and Brazilian music connoisseur. Bosco’s right hand technique imprints a very particular rhythm to his music.

This ethnic mix makes Bosco a worldwide acclaimed eclectic artist, famous for his musical creations, having a very personal signature. Bosco blends Arab culture, Afro-American music and Brazilian styles. Sergio Ricardo said “I simply say he is a phenomenon. His melodies, his rhythm, his harmony, his sense of arrangement surpass the levels accepted by masters.”

The line-up for the 21st edition of the Malta Jazz Festival, to be held between July 14 and 16 at Ta’ Liesse, is probably the most eclectic to date.

Tickets are €20 for a single-day ticket, €40 for a 3-day block ticket. Gold section: €30 for a single-day ticket. Concessions (students and +60). €12 for a single-day ticket, €30 for a three-day block ticket. Free entrance for children under 12 years of age.

The Festival is organised by the Malta Council for Culture and the Arts under the artistic direction of jazz musician Sandro Zerafa. For further information please visit the website www.maltajazzfestival.org or send an email to [email protected].