João Carlos Martins,
winner of the Lifetime Achievement Award
Who is João Carlos Martins and why is he such an important figure in classical music?
João Carlos Martins is not only a world-renowned pianist and conductor, but also an example of perseverance. Born in São Paulo in 1940, he is considered one of the greatest interpreters of Johann Sebastian Bach, whose complete works for piano he has recorded. His piano career started when he was only a boy, although he soon garnered widespread recognition. However, a degenerative disease and several accidents affected his hands, and in 2002, the musician gave up playing for good.
Despite everything, Martins remained connected to the world of music, his great passion. As a conductor, he continued to win over audiences in Brazil, London, Paris, and Brussels, as well as other cultural capitals, becoming a source of inspiration for entire generations thanks to his ability to overcome adversity.
João Carlos Martins’ career as an internationally renowned orchestral conductor
Overcoming his physical difficulties, João Carlos Martins found a new way to remain dedicated to music through conducting. Among others, he has conducted the English Chamber Orchestra, one of the best chamber orchestras in the world, performing Bach’s six Brandenburg Concertos, and the Bachiana Chamber Orchestra, performing the same composer’s four orchestral suites.
Unable to hold the baton correctly with his hands, he has dispensed with it altogether. Instead, he meticulously memorizes the music, as he cannot turn the pages of the score with his hands either.
How João Carlos Martins became a famous Brazilian pianist
From a very young age, Martins showed exceptional talent for the piano. At the age of 8, he was already giving recitals, and at 20, he began an international career that took him to iconic venues including Carnegie Hall in New York. His interpretation of the works of Johann Sebastian Bach earned him the admiration of critics and musicians around the world, making him one of the most outstanding performers of this composer’s works in the 20th century.
João Carlos Martins’ triumph over the problems with his hands
The story of Maestro Martins would not be complete without mentioning how he overcame the serious injuries and neurological problems that affected his hands and forced him to abandon his career as a pianist.
His love of music led him to remain connected to this art form, continuing his professional career as an orchestra conductor and promoter of the Bachiana Foundation, an organization that manages two orchestras with the aim of introducing classical music to all of society.
In 2019, thanks to bionic gloves, he was once again able to play the piano, after twenty years of silence.
João Carlos Martins’ legacy for Brazilian musical culture
Beyond his musical achievements, João Carlos Martins has left a profound legacy in Brazil. Over the years, he has promoted projects that have taken classical music to the most disadvantaged communities. His values and his determination to pursue his dreams, despite the difficulties, are a source of inspiration for many people who face daily adversity.
In addition to his artistic excellence, the panel recognized him as an example of perseverance in the face of adversity and for his outstanding social and humanitarian commitment.