Today we’d like to introduce you to Kely Pinheiro.
Hi Kely, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My musical journey began at the age of 12 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, where I fell in love with the cello at a non-profit organization. Over the years, I joined various chamber groups and orchestras, refining my skills, and even played at church.
After pursuing a Bachelor’s Degree in Music Education at the Federal University of The State of Rio de Janeiro, I chased my passion further at Berklee College of Music. There, I obtained a bachelor’s Degree in Performance and Contemporary Writing & Production. Notably, I recently completed a European tour with Norwegian singer-songwriter Astrid S and participated in a North American tour with the Broadway Musical Hadestown.
Despite facing financial hardships and navigating the challenges of adapting to a new country with a different culture and language, I’ve remained committed to my musical pursuits. Currently, I’m gearing up to start my master’s in Performance at New Jersey City University.
Looking ahead, I aspire to secure a position as a professor at a college while continuing to embark on short tours. My goal is to not only perform but also collaborate with fellow artists, fostering a rich musical community.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Certainly not! In my first year at Berklee, I faced a significant setback when I sprained my left hand tendon. This forced me to take a hiatus from playing the cello for a couple of months. However, Berklee’s exceptional health and wellness department played a crucial role in my swift recovery.
Moreover, I encountered visa issues that jeopardized my status, and there was a real possibility of returning to Brazil due to a denied visa. Fortunately, with the unwavering support of friends and family, I navigated through these challenges. I am now in a much better situation, grateful for the resilience that allowed me to overcome these obstacles. Today, I have ample time to focus on my studies and professional pursuits in the US.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I am a versatile cellist, arranger, teacher, and singer-songwriter with a primary focus on elevating my cello work. Recently, I completed a rewarding tour with the Broadway musical Hadestown, marking one of the most special professional experiences in my career.
My specialization lies in contemporary, jazz, and Brazilian music. Currently embarking on a master’s program at New Jersey City University, my goal is to further develop my contemporary cello skills. What sets me apart is my unique approach—bridging solid techniques for diverse genres. There aren’t many cellists exploring this fusion, and I’m excited to pioneer this adventure, contributing innovative insights to the broader string players’ community.
I take immense pride in pushing boundaries and venturing into uncharted territories within the realm of cello performance. This commitment to innovation and versatility defines my work and sets me apart in the music landscape.
What has been the most important lesson you’ve learned along your journey?
Throughout my journey, the most crucial lesson I’ve embraced is twofold. Firstly, I’ve discovered that we possess untapped potential beyond our initial beliefs. By consistently subjecting myself to challenges, I unveiled the realization that I can achieve more than I initially thought possible.
Secondly, I’ve come to understand that challenges serve as the stepping stones to success. Embracing difficulties as opportunities to grow has not only added excitement and intensity to my life but has also been instrumental in my personal and professional development. Each challenge, though making life a bit more demanding, has been a source of profound learning and resilience.
In essence, the most important lesson from my journey is the transformative power of challenging oneself, leading to an enriched and dynamic life experience.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.kelypinheiro.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/that_braziliancellist/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pinheirokely
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kely-pinheiro-a73162207/
- Youtube: www.youtube.com/@kelypinheiro2595
Image Credits
Photos by Robert Torres and Luiza Mesquita.
