Gonçalo Cruz is a musician, researcher, and maker of bagpipes and woodwinds.
Over the last two decades, he has been instrumental in reviving the local Portuguese Gaita bagpipe, through his work as a builder, player, and instrument teacher.
Gonçalo combines teaching and research at the Folk Music Department of Sibelius Academy - University of the Arts. His research focuses on the revival and redesign of forgotten bagpipes, particularly the Finnish Säkkipilli.
Based in Helsinki since 2019, Gonçalo runs a professional bagpipe-making workshop where he continues to craft and restore instruments while exploring new designs and techniques.
He also organizes bagpipe learning courses for beginners.
In addition to instrument-making and teaching, Gonçalo has worked as a composer and performer, collaborating with various European musicians and ensembles. His compositions, influenced by the rich tradition of folk music and cinema soundtracks, aim to evoke powerful storytelling and vivid imagery. Blending tradition with innovation, Gonçalo strives to push the boundaries of bagpipe music while remaining deeply rooted in its historical and cultural significance.
Since 1997, Gonçalo has been on a continuous journey to master the world of bagpipes, becoming a leading figure in the new Portuguese folk scene, and now Finland and the Baltic & Nordic regions.