Noteworthy

Renata grew up surrounded by percussion instruments at her parents’ bakery in Coimbra. Although percussion was her first musical experience, it was the trumpet that called to her. She followed that call through conservatory training in Portugal and graduate studies at Rice University, where she earned her position with the TSO while still a student.

Moving to a new country while stepping into a top-tier orchestra is no small feat, but Renata has found Toronto to be welcoming—especially in its cultural diversity. “As soon as I arrived in Toronto, I saw a dynamic mixture of cultures. A morning walk to the St. Lawrence Market quickly showed me that I would never miss a pastel de nata,” she shares.

And when she saw a map of Toronto’s neighbourhoods? “I eagerly planned a visit to Little Portugal,” she laughs.

Toronto’s vibrant Portuguese community has helped ease the inevitable homesickness. “Whenever I feel a longing for home, Toronto has people and places to remind me of the things I miss. Some of my fondest thoughts of Portugal revolve around my parents’ bakery in Coimbra. Although there is no way to substitute my parents’ torrada, it makes me very happy to find excellent and authentic Portuguese bakeries here.”

Renata also feels fortunate to begin her professional journey under the leadership of TSO Music Director Gustavo Gimeno. “I am extremely grateful to have Gustavo Gimeno as my first music director,” she says. “It is unique within the TSO to share the familiarity of an Iberian heritage.”

In the orchestra, Renata has found camaraderie and mentorship. “From day one, I've enjoyed the support and humour of the incredible trumpet players I work with. I’m also very proud to work alongside other talented and strong women in the TSO brass section.”

That harmonious spirit extends beyond the concert hall. “All of these colleagues have become my friends. We work together, we celebrate together, and recently we even played baseball together.”

Now finishing her second season with the orchestra, Renata is looking forward to what lies ahead. “Toronto is the perfect place for a young, motivated female trumpet player,” she reflects. “I know if I have an occasional feeling of saudade, there are people and places in the city to remind me of my Portuguese roots.”

In the video below, Renata shares how her musical path led from Coimbra to Toronto, the deep personal ties she feels to the city’s Portuguese community, and why Toronto is her ideal place to grow as an artist and a person.

This video was produced and edited by Jeffrey Beecher, TSO Principal Double Bass. It first appeared on the TSO musicians’ Instagram channel. For behind-the-scenes content, musician profiles, and moments both onstage and offstage, follow @TSOMusicians.