Marco Castillo’s musical appetites were honed at the feet of the best; his father led the group Trio Irakitan and recorded prolifically, including with Nat King Cole. Born in the samba capital of the world, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, Marco toured extensively as a sideman and bandleader in Brazil and South America after graduating with a B.A. in music. 

Upon arriving in Canada in 2007 as an experienced musician, Marco rapidly made an impact on the rich Winnipeg music community, recording three full length albums. Brazilian Season (2008) was top on the university and college radio charts for several weeks. In 2010 he was invited by CBC’s former producer Kinsey Posen to cover two songs for a CBC music project - “Heart of Gold “ and “These Eyes” were beautifully crafted in a unique Brazilian style. Marco's 2012 record Trip to Brazil won the Western Canadian Music Award for Best World Music, and Zabelê (2014) was also nominated at the WCMAs. In 2015, Marco's newest album found him representing Brazil in one of the biggest Latin American festivals in Viña del Mar, Chile with his original piece “Forró no Canadá”. Marco performed twice for 15,000 people at the venue La quinta vergara. The live show was broadcast to millions around the globe and he was one of six finalists. In the same year he performed an epic show at venue Beco das garrafas, the cradle of bossa nova in Copacabana, Rio de Janeiro.

Always looking for inspiration, Marco has collaborated and performed with the Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra, Winnipeg Jazz Orchestra and plenty of local and international artists, as well as toured in western Canada. Whether leading his full band, Brazilian Beats, or small ensembles, Castillo is a versatile musician and producer who blends smoothly and passionately into any musical context.    

Marco has several music projects on the go for release in 2023 - new music is being cooked! 

$18 plus GST + Showpass fee in advance or $20 at the door