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"Zequinha de Abreu" was the nickname of José Gomes de Abreu, a Brazilian composer and musician born on September 19, 1880, in Santa Rita do Passa Quatro, Brazil. He was a prominent figure in the Brazilian music scene, known for his contributions to the choro genre, which is a style of instrumental music that originated in Brazil and combines European melodic and harmonic traditions with African and Brazilian rhythms.

One of Zequinha de Abreu's most famous compositions is "Tico-Tico no Fubá," which is a choro piece for solo piano. Here are some interesting facts about this iconic composition:

1. Composed in 1917: "Tico-Tico no Fubá" was composed by Zequinha de Abreu in 1917 when he was just 17 years old. Despite his young age, the piece quickly gained popularity and became one of his most enduring compositions.

2. Inspiration: The title "Tico-Tico no Fubá" is derived from a Brazilian bird called the "tico-tico," which is known for its rapid and repetitive chirping sounds. "Fubá" refers to cornmeal, a staple ingredient in Brazilian cuisine. The title reflects the lively and intricate nature of the music.

3. Virtuosic Piano Piece: The composition is known for its virtuosic piano writing, featuring fast-paced melodies, intricate runs, and syncopated rhythms. It showcases the technical prowess of the pianist while capturing the essence of Brazilian musical culture.

4. Global Recognition: "Tico-Tico no Fubá" gained international recognition and has been performed by numerous musicians and orchestras around the world. It became a crossover hit and was adapted into various arrangements for different instruments and ensembles.

5. Carmen Miranda's Performance: The song's popularity received a significant boost when it was performed by Brazilian singer and actress Carmen Miranda in the 1947 Hollywood musical film "Copacabana." Her energetic rendition, along with her colorful costume and signature fruit hat, helped introduce Brazilian music to a global audience.

6. Cultural Impact: "Tico-Tico no Fubá" has become a staple of Brazilian music and is often played at festivals, parties, and cultural events. It has also been featured in numerous films, television shows, and commercials, contributing to its enduring popularity.

7. Choro Tradition: The piece exemplifies the choro genre's blend of European classical influences with Afro-Brazilian rhythms and melodies. Choro music is characterized by its improvisational nature and lively, syncopated rhythms.

8. Sheet Music and Recordings: Over the years, "Tico-Tico no Fubá" has been recorded by a wide range of musicians and orchestras. The sheet music for the composition is widely available, and musicians continue to perform and interpret the piece in various styles and arrangements.

"Tico-Tico no Fubá" stands as a testament to Zequinha de Abreu's talent as a composer and his contribution to the world of Brazilian music.