Hermeto Pascoal, 'the wizard' of Brazilian music, dies at 89

Hermeto Pascoal, a renowned Brazilian musician and composer, passed away at the age of 89. Pascoal was widely known as the "wizard" of Brazilian music, known for his unique blend of jazz and traditional Brazilian music. Throughout his illustrious career, he composed over 2,000 instrumental pieces, showcasing his exceptional talent and creativity. Pascoal's music was characterized by its avant-garde and experimental nature, often featuring unconventional instrumentation and improvisational elements. He was celebrated for his ability to seamlessly incorporate various musical influences, from Brazilian folk music to jazz and classical, into his compositions. Pascoal's influence extended far beyond his native Brazil, and he was highly regarded by musicians around the world. His passing marks the end of an era in Brazilian music, as he was considered one of the most innovative and influential figures in the country's rich musical heritage.