João Carlos Martins

João Carlos Gandra da Silva Martins (Portuguese pronunciation: [ʒuˈɐ̃w ˈkaʁluz maɾˈtʃĩs]); born June 25, 1940) is a Brazilian classical pianist[1] and conductor, who has performed with leading orchestras in the United States, Europe and Brazil.

International attention grew in 1961 when, aged 20, he performed at his debut concert in Washington, D.C., Bach's 48 Preludes and Fugues from the Well-Tempered Clavier (a work that became one of his specialties).

His collection of the complete keyboard works of Bach - a 20 CD edition released on the Concord Concerto label, and the most extensive series of Bach keyboard recordings by a single pianist - resulted in spectacular reviews throughout the world, including feature articles and cover stories in some of the most prestigious music magazines.

After undergoing numerous treatments, including a new version of biofeedback therapy on his right arm, he played a triumphant comeback concert in Carnegie Hall in 1996, appearing as soloist with the American Symphony Orchestra, performing Ravel and Ginastera.

[6] Harold C. Schonberg, Pulitzer-winning music critic of the New York Times, said, "His technique sends fireworks in all directions... he does everything with extraordinary élan."

The pianist has placed such a vivid stamp on the material that it is no longer the composer's alone… It's literally breathtaking.” In 2001 a book, entitled "Conversations with Martins", was published about his life and career.

It was written by noted pianist and Juilliard School professor David Dubal,[7] to coincide with João's new recordings of Mozart, Haydn and Beethoven.

In the movie, Martins encounters some of his friends including the soccer player Pelé and the legendary jazz pianist Dave Brubeck.