Welcome to the Assad Family Museum
The Assad Family Museum is a space dedicated to celebrating and preserving the legacy of one of the most unique families in Brazilian music. Over the course of six decades, the Assads have been pioneers in classical and popular music, both instrumental and vocal, on guitar and piano, bringing sophistication and Brazilian musical identity to international stages. The museum is a dynamic space with interactive exhibitions that are continuously renewed. The project initially plans 12 exhibitions, released one every four months, accumulating narrative layers that gradually reveal the different phases of the family over time.
Founded by Badi e Kevin Produções (Badi Assad and Kevin Callahan), the museum offers a deep dive into the journey of this musical dynasty.
With a spotlight on the Duo Assad, composed of Sérgio and Odair — considered one of the greatest guitar duos in the world —
With their unique blend of refined technique and musical sensitivity, the Assad Duo redefines what classical guitar duets can achieve. — The New York Times
And also on Badi Assad's solo career — known not only for her guitar skills but for conquering the world with her voice and unmistakable style:
Assad has the ability to take simple melodies and transform them into virtuosic expressions. She often uses the guitar as percussion, striking her pickup to create an extra beat, setting a backdrop for what she's doing with her left hand. She doesn't use loop effects. Her guitar is plugged into a direct box and nothing else, which makes it quite amazing to witness what she can do without embellishments. – Ernest Barteldes, Iridium Jazz Club, NY
The new generation, represented by composer, pianist, and singer Clarice Assad (daughter of Sérgio), who is conquering the world as one of the great revelations of today, is also highlighted by the talent of singer Carolina (daughter of Odair) and singer-songwriter and filmmaker Rodrigo (son of Sérgio). Together, they continue the family legacy, creating a vibrant chapter in this story.
She is the most exciting Brazilian singer/pianist I've ever heard — by far. As remarkable as Tania Maria has been for decades, she clearly takes a backseat, at least compared to the singer, pianist, composer, and arranger Clarice Assad. – The Buffalo News
April 19th
July 31st
March 24th
December 26th
October 24th
December 23rd
February 9th
June 30th
March 30th
Exhibitions
The interactive exhibitions offer a unique experience, immersing you in the musical history of each family member. You'll find captioned photographs, videos, handwritten scores, rare recordings, and other exclusive materials that tell this remarkable musical story.
The Assad Duo's story goes beyond music — it's a family saga of resilience, talent, and partnership. Born amid the difficulties faced by their parents, Seu Jorge and Dona Ica, Sérgio and Odair Assad transformed the passion inherited from their father into a successful international career.
Badi Assad's trajectory is marked by boldness, originality, and a constant search for new forms of expression. Coming from an exceptional musical family, Badi followed her own path, creating a unique language that transcends genres and borders.
When her first child arrived, at the age of 17, Dona Ica never imagined she would face such a complicated delivery — but, unfortunately, she did. At just three days old, Cito experienced the first of hundreds of seizures, caused by brain lesions and epilepsy, throughout his 64 years of life.
Credits
Concept and Curation
- Badi Assad
Artistic Direction
- Badi Assad e Elis Ribeirete
Research and Text
- Badi Assad
Design and Development
- Estúdio Oka e Zumbido Cultural
Personal Collection Digitization
- Tereza Hezim
Executive Production and Realization
- Badi e Kevin Produções
Revision
- Débora Venturini e Arlene Lelis
