Milton Nascimento is helping to keep musical education alive in Brazil. A major name in Brazilian music since the 1960s, Nascimento has lent his knowledge and know-how to the Bituca University of Popular Music, which offers free musical studies for students from across the country.

The school was begun in 2004 and is located on the outskirts of Barbacena in the state of Minas Gerais, about 175 miles outside of Rio de Janeiro. Housed in a former silk factory built in 1919, the school’s name, “Bituca”, derives from Nascimento’s nickname. The renowned singer-songwriter has served as a sort of “godfather” to the school, sitting in occasionally on school performances and even finding talented youngsters.

Bituca University sets itself apart by offering instruction from well-known musicians and workshop guests rather than professors. Its approach has begun to earn a national reputation for musical excellence.

“Just like in medieval times, apprentices learn by observing and working alongside their teachers, mirroring them,” according to the school, which was profiled recently in an article by Inter Press Service.

The school has no age limits or educational background requirements, solely relying on musical talent as its admissions requirement. This year’s applicants ranged in age from seven to 77. Programs are offered for nine instruments and voice, and instruction runs for two years.

Students of all economic background are accepted, and furthering the education of the country’s young musicians has become an important cause for Nascimento. The school’s work, and Nascimento’s, has paid off. Bituca graduates accounted for three of the six winners of the 2008 and 2009 Minas Gerais Development Bank Young Instrumentalist competitions.

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– SEAN CHAFFIN