This free event is part of the Nelson Freire Festival program and will take place on August 4 at 10 a.m. in Betim

The career of one of Brazil’s greatest pianists will be the subject of a free musical lecture at the Ramacrisna Institute in Betim. The event will take place on August 4 at 10 a.m. at the institution’s Cultural Center and is part of the Nelson Freire Festival, created to honor the Minas Gerais-born musician and keep his legacy alive.

Open to the public, the lecture will be led by pianist Patrícia Valadão and Eliseu Barros, conductor of the Ramacrisna Philharmonic Orchestra. In addition to presenting aspects of Nelson Freire’s life and career, the event will discuss the importance of preserving musical culture and the paths available to those who wish to turn their passion for music into a profession.

Eliseu is a violinist, conductor, and composer; he holds a bachelor’s degree in violin from UFMG, a master’s degree in Social Management, Education, and Local Development from UNA BH, and a postgraduate degree in Neuroscience and Psychoanalysis Applied to Education. For him, learning about the careers of great artists is extremely important for students’ development and can also inspire new talent. “Nelson Freire built an internationally recognized career without losing his connection to Minas Gerais and Brazilian music. Sharing this legacy is a way to broaden young people’s repertoire and show that dedication, study, and preparation are essential for those who wish to pursue a professional career in music,” he emphasizes.

With a degree in Music from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG), Patrícia Valadão has been a tenured faculty member at the institution’s School of Music since 2011. As a pianist and harpsichordist, she performs in symphonic and chamber concerts, operas, and vocal competitions.

During the lecture, the musician will also discuss the various professional opportunities in the field, as well as how a musical career requires ongoing training, discipline, dedication, and an openness to new experiences. Nelson Freire’s career path will be presented as an example of how artistic sensibility and consistent work can go hand in hand in building a life dedicated to music.

The Nelson Freire Festival is organized by the cultural production company Carminha Guerra, with sponsorship from the Unimed-BH Institute. The main program will take place August 20–22 in Belo Horizonte, bringing together musicians associated with the pianist’s career and works from the Romantic and Brazilian repertoires.

Event Details

Musical Lecture – Nelson Freire Festival

Date: August 4, 2026

Time: 10:00 a.m.

Location: Ramacrisna Institute Cultural Center, in Betim

Admission: free

Audience: open to the community