Manfredo Fest was born on May 13, 1936 in Brazil. From a young age, he showed a keen interest in music and began playing the piano at the age of five. Despite being diagnosed with a visual impairment that would eventually lead to him becoming legally blind, Fest was determined to pursue his passion for music.
Despite his visual impairment, Fest was able to read music in Braille, a skill that would prove invaluable throughout his career. In 1963, he released his first LP titled Bossa Nova, Nova Bossa, which showcased his talent for jazz and bossa nova music. Fest's unique blend of Brazilian rhythms and jazz harmonies set him apart from other musicians of his time.
Throughout his career, Fest collaborated with a variety of notable artists and groups, including Béla Fleck and the Flecktones. He also began working with renowned musician Sérgio Mendes in the 1970s, further solidifying his reputation as a talented pianist and composer.
Fest's wife, Lili Fest, was a composer who shared his love of music. Together, they raised a son named Phil Fest, who followed in his father's footsteps and became a guitarist. The Fest family's shared love of music created a strong bond that fueled their creative endeavors and brought them closer together.
As a young man, Fest was inspired by the jazz artistry of Bill Evans and George Shearing. Their innovative approach to music and mastery of the piano deeply influenced Fest's own playing style, shaping him into the talented musician he would later become.
In the later years of his career, Fest continued to perform and compose music, leaving behind a lasting legacy that continues to inspire musicians and music lovers around the world. His unique approach to jazz and bossa nova music, combined with his remarkable ability to overcome adversity, make him a truly unforgettable figure in the world of music.
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