H i l d o
The one person from my family whom I've always yearned to meet is my beloved grandfather - Hildo Faria Queiroz. Despite passing away when I was just two years old, he remains a cherished figure in our family's stories and memories. I wish I could have known him personally, but my understanding of this great man is built upon the stories my mother shared and the treasured video footage captured by my father.
My grandfather's life was nothing short of extraordinary - from overcoming the challenges of his orphaned childhood to earning a coveted spot at the toughest Military Academy in the country. His adventurous spirit led him to become the chosen one for the first jet flight in Portugal, a milestone that forever immortalized him in the Air Museum in the city of Sintra. He was a true legend in every sense.
Though we never had the chance to meet face to face, his presence and influence continue to be felt within our family to this day. We proudly carry his Brazilian heritage as a precious part of our identity. The stories passed down from generation to generation keep his memory alive and connect us to the remarkable person he was. Grandpa's legacy is a source of inspiration and a reminder of the strength and resilience that run through our family's veins.
[My grandfather (left), my grandmother (center), my mother (right), me and my brother]
Who was Hildo?
Hildo de Faria Queiroz was born on 28 March 1921 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, as the son of José de Faria Soares de Almeida Queiroz and Maria de Lurdes Fernandes de Faria. At a young age, he embarked on a journey that would lead him to leave a lasting mark on the world of aviation.
After arriving in Portugal, Hildo pursued his passion for flying and enrolled in the pilot-aviator course at the prestigious Military Academy. He excelled in his training and demonstrated exceptional skills as a pilot. Seeking to expand his knowledge and expertise, he furthered his education by undertaking an aeronautical engineering course at Loughborough College of Technology in England.
Hildo's dedication to aviation and his determination to push boundaries became evident when he faced a life-threatening situation. During a harrowing plane crash, he displayed remarkable courage and quick thinking by utilizing a parachute to save his own life. Despite sustaining the unfortunate consequence of breaking both legs upon landing, his actions earned him an esteemed invitation to join the esteemed "Gold Caterpillar Club Award."
This distinguished recognition is reserved for those who have successfully used a parachute in life-saving situations. The club's insignia, a caterpillar-shaped golden pin, symbolizes the significance of silkworms in producing the parachute fabric, celebrating the bravery of individuals like Hildo who demonstrated extraordinary courage in the face of adversity.
[My great-grandmother (left), my grandfather (top-centered), my great-grandfather(right)]
The Project
As I find myself living abroad, separated from the familiar surroundings of my upbringing, I have come to appreciate even more the deep and profound connection between Portugal and Brazil.
Recently, this profound appreciation has manifested itself in a creative project I passionately call "HILDO." Through this project, I aim to celebrate the diverse musical talents of both Portuguese and Brazilian composers while also exploring the intricate relationship between our nations. "HILDO" serves as a tribute to the brotherly bond that unites us, transcending geographical distance.
In my pursuit to honor this connection, I have embarked on a journey to collect and assemble a treasure trove of lesser-known works from both Portugal and Brazil. These hidden gems, waiting to be discovered and appreciated, are the heart and soul of "HILDO." With the invaluable assistance of multiple individuals who share my vision, I have unearthed a rich array of compositions that span genres and eras, showcasing the diversity and brilliance of our musical heritage.
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Reportoire
‣Villa Lobos - Improviso no.7 for Violin & Piano, “Melodia” (1915)
‣Rui C. Antunes – Three Epitaphs for Violin & Piano (2018)
‣F. Vale / (Arr) J. Heifetz – ‘By the Bonfire’ from Preludio XV (1930/1942)
‣Joly Braga Santos – Nocturne in E minor for Violin & Piano (1942)
‣ Luis Humberto Salgado - Capricho Ecuatoriano
‣Chiquinha Gonzaga songs arranged for violin
‣Villa Lobos - Sonata/Fantasia n.1 'Desesperança'
‣Alain Oulman – ‘Fado Alfama’ (Arr. Pedro Emanuel Pereira)
‣Darius Milhaud - 'Saudades do Brasil'
Contributions
Pedro Emanuel Pereira (Portuguese pianist/composer) :
‣Website - https://pedroemanuelpereira.com/
‣Producer - https://percosmusic.com/
Rui C. Antunes (Portuguese violinist/composer) :
‣Website - https://www.rui-c-antunes.com/
Álisson Berbert (Brazilian violinist/author):
‣Website - https://canalparaviolinistas.com/author/alisson-berbert/