Nova Orquestra (New Orchestra), known for combining symphonic sound with classics of Brazilian popular music, held a special tour between March 25 and 30 in Minas Gerais, with a special spotlight on 18-year-old percussionist João Emanoel. Born in Corumbá (MS), João began his musical journey at the Instituto Moinho Cultural Sul-Americano (South American Moinho Cultural Institute), where he took his first steps into the world of music at age 10.

With a rising career, João has performed on several stages, including with the Orquestra Sinfônica Brasileira (Brazilian Symphony Orchestra) (OSB) and the Orquestra Ouro Preto (OOP), in addition to having played alongside great names such as Alceu Valença.

“It was an unforgettable experience! Moinho Cultural gave me unique experiences and connected me with some of the best musicians in Brazil. Today, being on tour with Nova Orquestra is the fulfillment of a dream”, said the young man, who now also contributes to Moinho Cultural, helping train new talents.

The tour, which paid tribute to the icon Tim Maia, featured a vibrant repertoire, blending the hits of the “Síndico” with symphonic arrangements characteristic of Nova Orquestra. Songs such as “Vale Tudo”, “Acenda o Farol” and “Não Quero Dinheiro (Só Quero Amar)” were performed by an ensemble that included violins, symphonic viola, electric bass, trumpet and percussion.

“Tim Maia revolutionized Brazilian music, bringing influences from soul, black music and samba rock. Our goal is to translate that energy into a symphonic format, keeping the danceable, contagious essence of his classics”, explained conductor João Magalhães, one of the founders of Nova Orquestra.

The performances took place at historic and cultural venues in Minas Gerais, such as Cine Teatro Leon, in Congonhas; Museu Boulieu, in Ouro Preto; and Museu Mariana, in the state’s Central region, along with stops in Itabira, Nova Lima and Belo Horizonte. João Emanoel’s participation in the tour was sponsored by the Programa Vale Música (Vale Music Program).

Besides performing alongside great musicians, such as drummer Jonas Cáffaro, one of his main inspirations, João shared how important that experience was. “He is a reference in my musical world, and being able to play alongside him is something that motivates me even more”, celebrated the young percussionist.