Matheus Borges is a Brazilian musician, composer, and educator currently based in Budapest, Hungary, where he develops his artistic career.

​After a decade working primarily as a guitarist, Matheus shifted his focus to the expressive world of the pandeiro and hand percussion, exploring new possibilities for these instruments and bridging the harmonic and percussive worlds in a unique approach.

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In 2025, Matheus released two albums now available on all streaming platforms.
His debut album, Sundance, created in collaboration with Hungarian pianist Gábor Csórdas, features original compositions recorded in Budapest in 2023, where the pandeiro takes the role of the drum set in a jazz trio. The album was recorded live in the studio, with no edits or cuts.
 

That same year, he released a duo EP with pianist Christhian Kurdahl Larsen, recorded in 2024 in Copenhagen and featuring two of the pianist’s original compositions.

Driven by a deep passion for rhythm, Matheus dedicates himself to translating and adapting rhythmic traditions from different cultures to the pandeiro, expanding the instrument far beyond its traditional context. He has also been specializing in using the pandeiro as a central instrument, taking over the role typically occupied by a drum kit and supporting full performances without the need for a larger percussion setup — a concept he applies in concerts across different genres.

These explorations can be heard in his releases and in live performances with his South American duo Matear, as well as with Budapest Choro and ArrastaPest.

As an educator, Matheus is known for his practical, direct, and welcoming teaching style, helping students play with freedom, confidence, and musicality — from the first lessons to recording sessions and live shows. He has taught pandeiro and rhythm workshops in 10 countries, sharing his passion for Brazilian percussion worldwide.

His work as a musician and educator can be found on his YouTube channel and across all social media platforms.

A multifaceted artist and dedicated educator, Matheus continues to serve as a cultural bridge between Brazil’s musical traditions and the heart of Europe.