Jacaré Brazil

Founded in 1990 by Larry Crook, Jacaré Brazil is a UF School of Music ensemble devoted to Brazil’s rich musical heritage. With the addition of Welson Tremura as Co-Director in 2002, the group has quickly become the premiere ensemble of its kind in the United States.

Consisting of singers, percussionists, guitarists and other instrumentalists, Jacaré Brazil often collaborates with visiting Latin American musicians and gives numerous performances in the surrounding community and beyond exploring both popular music from all parts of Brazil.

Ensemble membership is open by audition to University of Florida students, Santa Fe College students, and members of the community. No previous experience with Brazilian music is necessary, but general musicianship is helpful. Those wishing to participate should register for the Jacaré Brazil section of MUN 2491 through the School of Music.

Jacaré Brazil provides priceless hands-on experience for UF students, yet Jacaré is not isolated within the university. The ensemble regularly attends community-based festivals and special events and perhaps most importantly provides programs for local public schools in an effort to reach out to young people who otherwise may never encounter Brazilian and Latin-American music and culture.

Thanks in part to the CWA and its partners Jacaré Brazil also works in conjunction with Artists- In-Residence to bring masters of the performing arts into local classrooms, confirming the CWA commitment to education and linking of local and global communities.