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Featuring three of Brazil's most in-demand musicians, Trio da Paz updates the infectious spirit of jazz-oriented Brazilian music. Formed in 1990 by guitarist Romero Lubambo, bassist Nilson Matta and drummer Duduka Da Fonseca, the Trio redefines Brazilian Jazz with their harmonically adventurous interactions, daring improvisations and dazzling rhythms. All three are seasoned masters of both jazz and Brazilian music with impressive resumes. The list of legendary musicians the members of Trio da Paz have recorded and performed with is extensive. A sampling would include guitarist Romero Lubambo's work with Dianne Reeves, Michael Brecker, Grover Washington, Jr. and Kathleen Battle; bassist Nilson Matta's work with Joe Henderson, Don Pullen, Yo-Yo Ma and Paul Winter; and Grammy nominee drummer Duduka da Fonseca's work with Astrud Gilberto, Antonio Carlos Jobim, John Scofield and Tom Harrell. Trio da Paz as a group has recorded and performed with Charlie Byrd, Herbie Mann, Lee Konitz, Kenny Barron and Nana Vasconcelos, among others.

Romero Lubambo

Born in Rio de Janeiro, Romero studied classical piano and music theory as a young boy. From the time he played his first notes o the guitar at age thirteen, he devoted himself to that instrument. He graduated from the Villa Lobos School of Music in Rio in 1978, a top student of classical guitar. In 1980 he received a degree in mechanical engineering from the Pontificia Universidade Catolica do Rio de Janeiro.
The rhythms and melodies defining Brazilian music and American jazz fascinated Lubambo. He taught himself through intense research and practice, developing exceptional skill, versatility and fluency in both jazz and Brazilian idioms. In 1985 he left Brazil for New York, where he worked for Astrud Gilberto for four years. He has since performed and recorded with many outstanding artists.

Nilson Matta

Born in Sao Paulo, Nilson Matta has long been considered one of Brazil’s best players. Since his arrival in New York in 1985, he has become the first call of many of the top US musicians. Nilson studied bass at the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ) with Sandrino Santoro, Brazil’s premier classical bass player. In 1983 Nilson was invited to Japan to perform with Lisa Ono. Together they spent six months promoting Brazilian music. In 1985 he moved to New York City. Since that time he has performed and recorded with many renowned artists.

Duduka Da Fonseca

Born in Rio de Janeiro, Duduka began playing the drums at the age of twelve. By fifteen, he was appearing on television, performing with the top musicians in Brazil. In 1975 Duduka moved to New York where he established numerous Brazilian jazz groups. Since 1984 he has been a member of the faculty at the Drummer’s Collective where he conducts workshops and gives private lessons. He has also conducted workshops in Europe and Japan. He is the author of an instructional book and tape set entitled Brazilian Rhythms for Drumset. His first solo album “Samba Jazz Fantasia” was nominated for the 2003 Grammy award for Best Latin Jazz Album.

Check out Trio Da Paz's album Somewhere.