[3] An important performer and composer of Brazilian choro, his compositions, influenced by American jazz, anticipated the development of bossa nova.
[3] Garoto performed and collaborated with many important musicians, including guitarists Paraguassú, Aimoré, Serelepe, Armando Neves (Armandinho) and Laurindo Almeida, as well as Carmen Miranda[3] and Radamés Gnattali.
[3][6] Once in the capitol, Garoto returned to Rádio Mayrink Veiga where he met Laurindo Almeida with whom he formed the quartet Cordas Quentes (Hot Strings) and the Duo do Ritmo Sincopado.
He commented that he was impressed by Bing Crosby, Tony Martin, and Ella Fitzgerald and notes that he had seen the Tommy Dorsey Orchestra perform.
[3][9] The trip also gave Miranda, Banda da Lua, and Garoto the opportunity to perform for Franklin D. Roosevelt in celebration of his seventh year as president.