Brazilian singer and composer Hildemar Diniz, known as Monarco and considered one of the most important figures of samba music, died Saturday aged 88. His death was announced by Portela, one of the most famous samba schools in Rio de Janeiro where he served as president. “It is with deep sadness that Portela reports the death of our honorary president, Monarco,” who had been hospitalized since November in the city “to undergo bowel surgery,” the school said on its website. It said he died from complications during the surgery.
