Luís Bittencourt is a visionary musician, composer, artist-researcher, and music producer celebrated for his groundbreaking contributions to contemporary music and sound art. Known for his boundary-pushing creativity, Bittencourt has been described as a “master of sound experimentation” (Vision Magazine), captivating audiences with his innovative performances that merge diverse musical traditions, cutting-edge experimentation, and immersive artistry. His solo performances, praised as “torrents of originality,” blend classical precision, the soul of South American folk music, avant-garde improvisation, and contemporary experimental sounds into transformative auditory experiences.
“The plurality of sounds and instruments presented by Luís Bittencourt elevates his artistry to the alchemical degree. His body movements are varnished by the playing of lights, turning him into an instantaneous shaman, a kind of high priest of sound.” (Grings Memorabilia, Brazil)
Throughout his career, Bittencourt has performed solo across Europe, Oceania, North and South America, earning accolades from esteemed venues such as Casa da Música in Portugal. He has premiered his own compositions as well as works by acclaimed composers like Tan Dun, Gabriel Prokofiev, Steve Reich, and various contemporary composers. Collaborating with renowned artists such as Lee Ranaldo and Leah Singer (Sonic Youth), Jeffrey Ziegler (former member of Kronos Quartet), Phill Niblock, Jon Rose, among others, Bittencourt has further enriched his artistic endeavors with diverse partnerships and creative exchanges.
As a composer and music producer, Bittencourt's achievements are equally impressive. His compositions have garnered recognition, including winning the prestigious "Legends of China - Confucius Arts Institute Award 2016." He has collaborated with esteemed artists and institutions such as photographer George Lange, Instagram®, Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity and United Nations Organisation, showcasing his versatility and expertise in music production and original composition.
A passionate and innovative researcher, Bittencourt is committed to exploring the intersections of sound, performance, and experimental creativity. His pioneering research on unconventional percussion techniques and the redefinition of musical instruments has positioned him as a thought leader in the academic community. He serves as a professor in the Master’s Degree in Computer Music and Sound Design at the University of Coimbra and the School of Applied Arts at the Polytechnic Institute of Castelo Branco. Bittencourt's scholarly contributions extend to international collaborations with the Society for Artistic Research (SAR) and the Percussive Arts Society (PAS), where he serves as a peer reviewer and artistic consultant.
With a PhD and Master's degree in Musical Performance and a Bachelor’s degree in Percussion Performance, Bittencourt combines academic rigor with artistic exploration. His debut solo album, Instrumentalities and Audible Volitions (2023), showcases his original compositions and groundbreaking approach to sound.
Whether on stage with electrifying performances or in academic forums advancing the boundaries of music, Luís Bittencourt exemplifies creativity, innovation, and excellence, standing as a transformative force in the global arts and music community.