José Pienasola

also known as Pierre Pienasola & Pie Pienasola

Legendary Brazilian jazz & bossa nova bassist • Berklee alumnus • World traveler of Brazilian grooves

Discover His Story

Welcome

José Pienasola is a master of the bass whose career spans more than five decades of Brazilian jazz, bossa nova, and international collaboration. From the stages of São Paulo to Berklee College of Music, Blue Note Tokyo, Scullers Jazz Club, and beyond, his warm, melodic bass lines have supported some of the greatest names in Brazilian music.

This site celebrates his unique journey as the only José Pienasola in the world.

Highlights

Berklee Scholarship

Full professional scholarship to Berklee College of Music in 1992 – moved to Boston and continued shaping the New England jazz scene.

Major Collaborations

Recorded and performed with Chico Buarque, Leny Andrade, Djavan, Gal Costa, Johnny Alf, Marcos Valle, and many more.

Awards

Clef Trophy (1987) – Best Bossa Nova Performers • ASPCN Trophy • Outstanding Performance, Cambridge Jazz Festival.