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Seminal Brazilian composer and pianist, considered a foundational figure in the development of Brazilian popular music, particularly the choro genre.Born in Rio de Janeiro, Nazareth received classical piano training but became renowned for composing and performing uniquely Brazilian music. His work masterfully blended European dance forms (polka, waltz, tango) with Afro-Brazilian rhythms, creating the distinct 'tango brasileiro' or choro. He published over 200 pieces, many becoming enduring classics like 'Odeon' and 'Brejeiro'. Despite recognition from figures like Villa-Lobos, he struggled financially, working as a pianist in cinemas and department stores. His later life was marked by profound personal tragedy and mental health struggles, culminating in his death in 1934.

• Nazareth became partially deaf in his 30s, a significant hardship for a musician.
• He suffered immense grief: his mother died when he was one, his first wife died young in 1924, and his beloved daughter died suddenly of pneumonia in 1933. The latter loss deeply affected his mental state.
• Plagued by depression and worsening mental health after his daughter's death, Nazareth was admitted to an asylum. He escaped and was found dead days later, drowned in the waters near the asylum. While officially recorded as 'cerebral congestion', it is widely considered suicide.
• Despite his profound influence on Brazilian music, Nazareth lived much of his life in relative financial obscurity, reliant on performing popular music in commercial establishments.