When Evandro Gracelli left the tiny island of Vitoria in Brazil, his mother gave him a photo of his great-grandfather playing the double bass outside a railway station. It was meant as inspiration, and since arriving in Ottawa 15 months ago, Gracelli has earned a living as a guitarist and music teacher. He will team up with jazz singer Rachel Beausoleil December 2 at the National Arts Centre’s Fourth Stage to perform their original compositions.

From the moment he arrived in Ottawa, the city has taken Evandro Gracelli's Brazilian music to its heart. Photo by Mike Levin.

What is your present state of mind?

Worried about how to deal with many projects at the same time.

What is your biggest fault?

Being  a slow person.

Where is your ideal place to live?

Now, Ottawa.

When were you happiest?

When my daughter was born.

Who is your favourite historical figure?

Jimmy Hendrix , he gives me  fire to live.

What human quality do you most admire?

Patience.

What is the most over-rated human virtue?

Solidarity.

Who is your favourite fictional character?

Chaplin.

What was your greatest misfortune?

Don´t know. I think I´m a lucky man.

What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?

Dedicate yourself, bro.

What is your greatest extravagance?

I´m a simple man. I don´t know this word.

What is your favourite journey?

Compose a new song.

What is your greatest regret?

I´d like to be more organized in my life, maybe one day.

What talent would you most like to have?

Being a musician.

What is your most treasured possession?

My family and my guitar.

What male quality do you most admire?

Patience with women.

What female quality do you most admire?

The look of love.

What is your motto?

Faith in life.

Art has the potential to…..?

Change our daily look.

What, if anything, scares you about the creative process?

Not being able to express myself.