In Ribeirão Preto, Seu Jorge remained determined to continue his sons’ musical training. Despite not finding a teacher, he ended up making a discovery that became, in itself, a form of learning. He met the guitarists known as the “Irmãos Penha,” Edinho and Altamir, whose way of playing—full of sophisticated harmonies and extended chords—was completely different from anything he and the boys had been exposed to. In fact, it was this encounter that sparked in Sérgio the desire to compose directly for the guitar, without the need for lyrics.
Not long after, they were introduced to the music of the Índios Tabajaras (Mussaperê and Herundy), two talented guitarists from Ceará who were taking the world by storm, further expanding the sense that a musical career might be possible.
A full year passed before a friend from the music circles mentioned there would be a guitar competition in São Paulo—the first of its kind in Brazil. The sponsors were the coveted Di Giorgio guitars, and the prize was a guitar from the brand.
At registration, it was discovered that, because they were under sixteen, Sérgio and Odair would compete in the same youth category. Since it was unthinkable for Seu Jorge to have his sons compete against each other, he decided that Odair would remain in the youth category— dedicated to classical music—while Sérgio would compete in the adult category—dedicated to popular music. The result? Both won first place.
Back in Ribeirão Preto, they continued attending the city’s choro circles until another coincidence arose: Rubens Coimbra, a police chief and amateur guitarist, joined the group, bringing with him his friend, journalist Oromar Terra (Mazo), from Rio de Janeiro’s newspaper O Globo.
Impressed by the boys’ skill, Mazo mentioned the existence of the renowned Duo Abreu— formed by brothers Sérgio and Eduardo Abreu, a reference in classical guitar and already internationally recognized. To the astonishment of Seu Jorge and his sons, they had never even heard of the duo.
Contact of journalist Mázo, preserved in handwritten note
