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18 page PDF with the standard notation, tab and fretboard diagrams. The PDF has the head for “Tico Tico” written by Zequinha de Abreu as played by Grant Green and the first 32 bars of the solo. Scales-D minor pentatonic, D blues, D minor diatonic, D harmonic minor, D melodic minor. Arpeggios-Dm7, A7, Gm7, Bb7, C7.
About “Tico Tico”
“Tico-Tico” (often known by its full Portuguese title “Tico-Tico no Fubá”) is a famous Brazilian choro song composed in 1917 by Zequinha de Abreu. It is one of the most internationally recognized pieces of Brazilian music and has been performed by countless artists around the world.
🌟 Key Facts About Tico-Tico no Fubá
• Composer: Zequinha de Abreu
• Year of composition: 1917
• Genre: Choro — a lively, virtuosic instrumental style from Brazil, predating samba
• Style traits: fast tempo, intricate melodies, rhythmic syncopation, and playful energy
🎵 Meaning of the Title
- “Tico-tico” refers to a small bird common in Brazil.
- “Fubá” is cornmeal.
The title loosely translates to “The sparrow in the cornmeal”, referring to a mischievous bird eating stored grain—hence the lively, fluttering musical character.
🎶 Musical Characteristics
- Typically played on flute, clarinet, mandolin, guitar, or piano
- Features rapid scales and ornamentation, giving a sense of constant motion
- A staple piece in choro ensembles and Brazilian music repertoire
🌍 Cultural Impact and Famous Performances
“Tico-Tico” achieved global fame, appearing in:
- Hollywood films (notably Carmen Miranda’s performances in the 1940s)
- Instrumental virtuoso recordings (such as by violinist Jascha Heifetz, pianist Liberace, guitarist Paco de Lucía)
- Big band arrangements, jazz interpretations, and countless covers
- Used in cartoons, commercials, and variety shows
Because it is public-domain in many regions, it became a favorite for musicians to show off technical prowess.
🎤 Versions with Lyrics
Though originally instrumental, lyrics were later written:
- Brazilian Portuguese lyrics by Eurico Barreiros
- English lyrics (“Tico-Tico”) by Aloysio de Oliveira
The English versions often appear in swing-era recordings.
