Brazilian Jazz Legend Hermeto Pascoal Passes at 89

Brazilian jazz icon Hermeto Pascoal has passed away at the age of 89, his family confirmed on Saturday.

Recognizable by his flowing white hair and beard, Pascoal was affectionately dubbed “The Sorcerer” for his unmatched ability to draw music not only from traditional instruments but also from everyday objects.

In a heartfelt message shared on Instagram, his family revealed that he died peacefully, surrounded by loved ones and fellow musicians. They noted that, in a poetic twist, Pascoal’s own band was performing live at the time of his passing — “just as he would have wanted, with music in the air.”

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Born in Brazil’s northeastern state of Alagoas, Pascoal achieved international acclaim through collaborations with jazz legend Miles Davis, who recorded some of his compositions, along with other world-renowned artists. His daring improvisations, instrumental mastery, and inventive approach secured him a place among the most innovative figures in global jazz.

Tributes have since poured in from across the music world. Celebrated Brazilian singer Caetano Veloso hailed him as “one of the greatest peaks in the history of Brazilian music.”