Francisco Marques is a dynamic multi-instrumentalist and music educator celebrated for his deep command of Brazilian music and its many rhythmic traditions. Born in Brazil and raised on the East Coast of the United States, he carries a bicultural musical identity that informs every aspect of his teaching and artistry. After earning his Bachelor of Arts in Music from Colby College in 2000, he moved to Colorado, where he launched what would become a two-decade career defined by innovation, collaboration, education and cultural stewardship. In his time there he founded the Brazilian band Ginga, the pagode band Grupo Chegando La, played percussion and bass in the Afro Samba band, Sambadendé and played an integral role in establishing and cultivating Colorado’s first bateria, “The Boulder Samba School”. Whether it was a Carnaval show in Denver, a monthly samba circle in Boulder or the annual cultural celebration, Colorado Brazil Fest, Francisco was always at the center of what was happening with Brazilian music locally.
Francisco currently lives in Monteverde, Costa Rica where he continues his legacy of helping create vibrant spaces for Brazilian music to be played and enjoyed. When he is not performing or teaching and mentoring locally, he travels to different countries teaching workshops and performing with different ensembles or with his solo show, live looping percussion, guitar and voice to create the sound of a full band.
A bridge between continents and cultures, Francisco continues to share the richness of Brazil’s musical heritage with audiences wherever he goes, inspiring communities through his artistry, teaching, and unwavering dedication to the craft.