Master of Samba

Percussionist Airto Moreira was born on August 5th, 1941 in Itaiópolis, Brazil.

Moreira was musically gifted from a young age, beginning his professional career at 13.

After moving to the United States in 1967, Moreira worked with influential fusion artists like Miles Davis, Weather Report, and Return to Forever.

He has since worked and recorded as a leader and with many different bands and orchestras.

He first came to be known for performing in the innovative “Sambalanço Trio” and appearing on recordings as a member of Quarteto Novo.

It was Zawinul who would introduce him to Miles Davis with whom Moreira remained for two years appearing on the 1970 LP release “Bitches Brew” before joining “Weather Report” in 1971.

Airto Moreira has since performed with a plethora of jazz talent including Lee Morgan, Cannonball Adderley, Dave Holland, Jack DeJohnette, and Keith Jarrett.

In addition he has appeared with a number of symphony orchestras as well as the rock group “Santana.”