Vicente Celestino

Biography

Antônio Vicente Filipe Celestino (12 September 1894 – 23 August 1968) was a Brazilian singer, composer and actor of Italian descent. Celestino was born in Rio de Janeiro, in the district of Santa Teresa, on 12 September 1894, although his birthdate was registered as 22 September. Son of Giuseppe Celestino and Serafina Gammaro, Italian immigrants from Calabria, he had eleven siblings. Five of them also became singers and one became an actor (Amadeu Celestino). From a humble background, Celestino worked since he was eight as a shoemaker, fishmonger, and newsboy.

A fan of Enrico Caruso, Celestino started singing for acquaintances, at parties, beer halls, revues and serenades. He made his prof...