“master of the Brazilian version of mandolin” – Billboard
Hamilton de Holanda is one of Brazil’s most celebrated musicians—a global ambassador, virtuoso performer, and groundbreaking improviser. Picking up the mandolin at the age of five, he redefined the ten-string version of the instrument. Then, he transformed it into a versatile voice that bridges the worlds of jazz, choro, and beyond.
The foundation of his music comes from a combination of family encouragement and formal training with a university degree in composition. Additionally, the freedom of Brasília’s choro street jams, where he grew up.
Hamilton is a multi-award-winning musician. He is a four-time Latin Grammy winner with seventeen nominations—including a Grammy nod for Best Latin Jazz Album. In Brazil, he has achieved star status, earning widespread acclaim from critics, peers, and audiences alike.
Furthermore, Hamilton’s influence continues to grow, due to his unique approach to improvisation and electrifying stage presence. In 2024 alone, he achieved 14 million streams across 180 countries and reached over 800,000 monthly listeners on Spotify.
In addition to his career as a performer, Hamilton was one of the founders of the world’s first Choro School. There, this was established in Brasília in 1997. He also spearheaded a petition to Brazil’s National Congress to establish a National Day of Choro. Thus, this helps secure the genre’s cultural legacy.
Hamilton’s career is defined by his ability to blend Brazilian traditions with global sounds. His collaborations include Wynton Marsalis, Chick Corea, Milton Nascimento, Djavan, Gonzalo Rubalcaba, Dave Matthews, John Paul Jones, and Hermeto Pascoal.
Hamilton’s music connects cultures, celebrates diversity, and pushes the boundaries of sound, solidifying his place as a true innovator and cultural ambassador.
Recommended for fans of Béla Fleck, Chick Corea, Gonzalo Rubalcaba and Hermeto Pascoal.
