Biography
The Harmonica Virtuoso
Acclaimed by international critics as the "David Oistrakh of the harmonica," José Staneck has established himself as one of the greatest exponents of his instrument in the world. With a unique style that blends the rigorous technique of concert music with the soul of popular music and jazz, Staneck is today the leading authority in the interpretation and dissemination of Heitor Villa-Lobos's work for harmonica.
Career Path and Training
With a Master's degree in Music from UNIRIO, Staneck began his career under the guidance of masters such as the German HJ Koellreutter, Isidoro Kutno, Nailson Simôes, and Maurício Einhorn. His academic and technical training allowed him to elevate the harmonica to the center of major orchestras, performing as a soloist with institutions such as OSESP, the Brazilian Symphony Orchestra (OSB), the Petrobras Symphony Orchestra, and the Caracas Youth Symphony Orchestra.
International Milestones and Discography
His career is marked by performances on iconic stages, including a historic tour of Carnegie Hall (USA) in 2022. With a discography totaling 15 CDs, highlights include his recording of Villa-Lobos' Harmonica Concerto with the OSESP, released worldwide by the Naxos label, as well as albums dedicated to Radamés Gnattali, Guerra-Peixe, and Astor Piazzolla (with the group Harmonitango).
Promoting Brazilian Music
A pioneer, Staneck is the recipient of more than 30 unpublished works dedicated to him by contemporary Brazilian composers such as Egberto Gismonti, Edino Krieger, and Marlos Nobre. His work goes beyond performance, actively engaging in the research and cataloging of scores for the instrument, ensuring the preservation and future of the harmonica repertoire.
.jpg)
Social Commitment and Education
For José Staneck, music is, above all, an instrument of transformation and social inclusion. With a solid academic and pedagogical background, he directed Musiarte (Integrated Music Course) for 15 years, where he developed fundamental work in the field of education. Currently, he dedicates himself to enabling cultural inclusion in various regions of Brazil, combining artistic excellence and civic responsibility.
His work brings harmonica instruction to children in underprivileged communities through strategic projects such as the "Second Cultural Shift," which serves the "Schools of Tomorrow" in areas like Manguinhos, Acari, Maré, and Cidade de Deus. In addition, Staneck is involved in initiatives such as "Orchestras in Schools," the "Musical Apprentice" program in Niterói, and is responsible for the educational activities of the Antonio Carlos Jobim Institute (IACJ), where he promotes the work of maestro Tom Jobim for new generations. Through workshops and educational concerts, he has already introduced the harmonica to the lives of thousands of young people, reaffirming his commitment to democratizing access to concert music.
A master of music, concert performer, and researcher, José Staneck has performed in over 100 concerts with various orchestras and made 15 solo recordings, making his harmonica a true instrument of transformation.