Ricardo Bacelar is a Brazilian pianist, composer, arranger, and music producer known for his eclectic style that blends jazz, Brazilian popular music (MPB), classical, and world music. Born in Fortaleza, in the state of Ceará, Bacelar began his musical journey at a young age, demonstrating early talent and a deep passion for the piano.

He first gained national attention as a member of the Brazilian rock band Hanoi-Hanoi in the 1980s, but later transitioned to a solo career that allowed him to explore more refined and instrumental musical languages. His work as a solo artist reflects a sophisticated fusion of Brazilian rhythms with jazz harmonies and international influences.

Bacelar studied music formally and is also a lawyer, showcasing a rare combination of academic and artistic paths. His discography includes critically acclaimed albums such as Concerto para Moviola (2001), Universo Inverso (2013), Sebastiana (2018), and Ao Vivo no Rio (2020), each highlighting his virtuosity and his commitment to high-level musical production.

In addition to his solo career, Bacelar has collaborated with renowned Brazilian and international musicians, participating in recordings and live performances that span a wide array of styles and traditions.

In recent years, Bacelar has deepened his exploration of Brazilian musical heritage through innovative collaborations and thematic projects. In 2024, he released Donato in partnership with acclaimed singer Leila Pinheiro — an album honoring João Donato, featuring classics like “A Rã” and “Lugar Comum” and special appearances by Jaques Morelenbaum. That same year, Bacelar also co-produced Telepatia, an EP with Flávio Venturini that merges the musical essences of Ceará and Minas Gerais.

Among his most expressive recent works is Aracati (2024), an instrumental album created in collaboration with cellist and arranger Jaques Morelenbaum. Inspired by the natural beauty and atmosphere of the coastal town of Aracati in Ceará, the album was born during an artist residency and recorded at the Jasmin Studio. Aracati stands out for its atmospheric soundscapes, blending acoustic textures, Brazilian rhythms, and classical influences, in the spirit of artists like Egberto Gismonti. The project reflects Bacelar’s sensitivity to place and nature, translating the winds, sea, and sunlight of Northeast Brazil into elegant and emotive compositions.

In 2023, Bacelar also joined Roberto Menescal and Diogo Monzo on Nós e o Mar, an instrumental tribute to Menescal’s 85th birthday. He collaborated with Ednardo on the single “Ícaro do Teu Sol,” a poetic celebration of their decades-long artistic friendship.

Beyond his musical activities, Ricardo Bacelar is also active in cultural and artistic advocacy in Brazil, contributing to the development and promotion of Brazilian music on the global stage. He is the founder of Jasmin Studio and the Jasmin Music label, which have become creative hubs for original Brazilian music production.

He also serves as the Honorary Consul of Belgium.