BRAZILIAN COMPOSER, ARRANGER & MUSIC DIRECTOR
Latin Grammy-nominated composer based between New York and São Paulo, developing orchestral, chamber, and collaborative musical projects shaped by Brazilian music, improvisation, and contemporary ensemble practices.
PROFESSIONAL PROFILE
-
Latin Grammy nominee
-
Doctorate in Jazz Composition – University of Miami
-
Music Director of Orquestra Urbana (São Paulo)
-
Works performed internationally by major orchestras, jazz ensembles, and artists
ARTISTIC PRACTICE
Rafael’s work focuses on composition, arrangement, music direction, and artistic collaboration developed through orchestral projects, jazz ensembles, chamber groups, recordings, and interdisciplinary performances.
His projects include orchestral works, chamber music, jazz orchestra writing, Brazilian instrumental music, recordings, interdisciplinary collaborations, and long-term ensemble projects developed across Brazil and the United States.
SELECTED PERFORMANCES
His works and arrangements have been performed by major orchestras and ensembles internationally, including:
-
Brasil Jazz Sinfônica (São Paulo - Brazil)
-
Symphony of the Americas (Fort Lauderdale - US)
-
Henry Mancini Institute Orchestra (Miami - US)
-
Orquestra Sinfônica Brasileira (OSB) | Rio de Janeiro - Brazil
-
Metropole Orkest (Netherlands)
-
National Symphony Orchestra of Costa Rica (Costa Rica)
-
Symphonic Jazz Orchestra (Los Angeles - US)
-
Orquestra Urbana (São Paulo - Brazil)
-
Campinas Symphony Orchestra (Campinas - Brazil)
-
Orquestra GRUSinfônica (Guarulhos - Brazil)
-
BMI/NY Jazz Orchestra (New York - US)
MUSICAL APPROACH
His work frequently moves between orchestral writing, improvisation, Brazilian music, chamber ensemble interaction, and collaborative performance environments developed for both concert and recording settings.
PRESS
Rafael’s work has been recognized by leading figures and publications in jazz and contemporary music.
"At each listening, you hear something new and inspiring. This recording is innovative, sophisticated, and filled with the rare optimism of two masters in full flight."
- Wynton Marsalis
"Piccolotto conjures a cornucopia of sonic textures."
- Downbeat Magazine
TEACHING AND MENTORSHIP
Alongside his artistic work, Rafael also teaches composition, arrangement, creative process, Brazilian music, and ensemble practices through mentorship, workshops, private lessons, and online educational projects.
His teaching is closely connected to his professional work with orchestras, recordings, large ensembles, and collaborative artistic productions.
WORK WITH RAFAEL
Available for commissions, arrangements, music direction, recordings, orchestral collaborations, festivals, educational activities, and interdisciplinary artistic productions.
→ Explore Commissions & Collaborations
For inquiries related to collaborations, performances, or educational work, please get in touch.