Candido Bretto accomplished something truly special by adapting Diane L. Finn’s “The Secrets of Plymouth Rock“ into songs. He preserved an important piece of American history, making it more accessible and engaging for children through music. His work exemplifies how literature and music can be intertwined to create a richer, more immersive experience, ensuring that stories like Plymouth Rock’s continue to inspire and educate future generations. Candido Bretto’s songs capture the essence of “The Secrets of Plymouth Rock“ and by doing so, Bretto accomplished several significant things:
- Preservation and Promotion of History: Help preserve the historical significance of Plymouth Rock by making the story more accessible to children through music. His songs serve as a tool for educators and parents to teach history in a way that resonates with young audiences.
- Bridging Literature and Music: Successfully bridges the gap between literature and music. This fusion allows children who may not be inclined to read or who learn better through auditory means to connect with the historical content in a way that suits their learning style.
- Cultural Enrichment: Contribute to cultural enrichment by adding a new dimension to the narrative of Plymouth Rock. Music is a powerful medium that can evoke emotions and memories, and Bretto’s work ensures that the story of Plymouth Rock will be remembered and cherished by future generations in a new, melodic form.
- Creative Interpretation: Bretto’s interpretation of Finn’s story through song lyrics demonstrates his ability to creatively engage with existing literature, offering a fresh perspective while staying true to the original narrative. His lyrics encapsulate the emotions and themes present in the story, such as the sense of discovery, the struggles of the Pilgrims, and the historical significance of Plymouth Rock.
This local author, musician, and record producer was born in Boston, MA, and is of Cape Verdean descent. He is the proud father of the amazingly talented violin maker Marcus Bretto. He majored in arranging, composition, and songwriting at Berklee College of Music in Boston and performed in Berklee’s first-ever jazz chorus. Candido has taught music at Woodward School for Girls in Quincy and Bay Farm Montessori Academy in Duxbury. Candido performs regularly with the wedding and events band Brandy.
Candido Bretto is also a published author. His children’s book, The Falling Star Repairman, is published by Briley & Baxter Publications, LLC of Plymouth, MA, and is available on Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Walmart.com, Target.com, and many other online bookstores.
Grammy Winners
The Candyman has shared the stage with such Grammy-winning artists as Brad Paisley, Maurice Starr producer of the New Kids on the Block and The New Edition, Sib Hashian, Barry Goudreau of the rock band Boston, and Kenny Loggins.
Charity
Locally, Mr. Bretto has performed at the Massachusetts Republican Convention. Governor Charlie Baker, former Boston mayors Marty Walsh, and Tom Mennino, Big Papi, Bobby Orr and Mark Wahlberg have all heard the Candyman play. Boston Police Foundation, Boston Harborfest, Figawi Charity Ball, Boston Children’s Hospital Fundraiser, the Max Warburg Courage Curriculum, Tolman MDA Telethon, Quincy Police DARE, Hingham Firefighters, and the Boys and Girls Club of Dorchester.
Reality TV
The Candyman is the bass guitarist and singer with Johnny Drama and his Funky Entourage from A&E’s reality show Wahlburgers. The show’s co-star, Johnny “Drama” Alves, a Plymouth, MA native, graciously offered his private studio for recording the album. Candido has even sung on the Tonight Show with Jay Leno stage as part of pre-show entertainment.
Performing at Campiello’s, Naples, FL, for the Naples Winter Wine Festival with “Link Montana and the Rough Riders”
L-R
Lou Cataldo – Drums, Michael Goods – keyboardist for Grammy-winner Aaron Neville, Bruce Maclean – Guitar, and Candido Bretto – Bass.
At the world-renowned D’Amico’s The Continental in Naples, FL, with guest singer Trez Gregory, formerly with Grammy-winning country artist Brooks and Dunn.
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