Michel Nirenberg is an award-winning jazz and classical saxophonist and composer from Rio de Janeiro. Now on his third U.S. tour as a Jazz Beyond Borders touring artist, he has already won the hearts and minds of many jazz fans and high praise from critics.
He earned a master's degree from James Madison University in classical performance, saxophone. He recorded his first album in New York and Washington, D.C. in 2015, accompanied by a roster of international players. Retrato/Portrait quickly rose to No. 6 on the CMJ jazz radio charts in the U.S., leading to a string of concerts and standing ovations from many enthusiastic fans.
Nirenberg’s music showcases a range of styles in contemporary and historically popular Brazilian instrumental music. Along with the familiar sounds of samba, listeners will hear the urban-born choro, forrò, baião, maracatu, and Ijexa. Being a history buff, the young artist treats American audiences to fascinating tidbits about how these styles evolved.
Tour performances include tunes from his CD such as “Menina de Avental.” A traditional samba inspired by a beautiful woman, it is reminiscent of “Manhã de
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Carnaval” (Black Orpheus) by Luis Bonfá. Hear Ellington’s “Caravan” given a Brazilian twist and “Forro from the South,” paying tribute to the State of Virginia..
Enjoy highlights from his next album as well. “Faith” mixes baião, partido alto and maracatu rhythms. An Ijexá rhythm from the state of Bahia, “Bahia De Todos Os Santos” is based on a traditional Capoeira chant. (Capoeira is the martial art used by Brazilian slaves in revolts against the well-armed Portuguese.)
Nirenberg is an eager and able ambassador of Brazilian music with its rich mix of cultures and captivating rhythms. His Germano’s debut features other top-flight players: internationally known bassist Michael Pope, pianist Todd Simon and drummer Julian Berkowitz. Get ready to hear amazing tunes – melodic, memorable!

“In terms of style, substance, and execution, Nirenberg ranks high. This is some brilliant Brazilian jazz.”
– Dan Bilawsky, All About Jazz
“Here is a player who uses virtuosity not for self-aggrandizement but to glorify the music”
– Raul da Gama, Latin Jazz Network
“Exquisite execution and virtuoso performances underpin a well-curated selection of music"
– Ken Avis, Baltimore Jazz Alliance