Ideval Anselmo, a renowned composer of samba-enredo for São Paulo's Carnaval, has died at the age of 85 on Ash Wednesday. His family announced the news, emphasizing the importance of preserving his legacy, which includes the classic samba-enredo "Narainã, a Alvorada dos Pássaros" created in 1977 for the Camisa Verde e Branco samba school, alongside partner Zelão. Anselmo's contributions significantly shaped the music associated with the Carnaval festivities in the city.

Born in Catanduva and raised in Votuporanga, Anselmo faced hardships including prejudices during his youth, as he described in an interview with Iniciativa Negra, reflecting on his life as a young Black man working in agriculture due to a lack of job opportunities. Moving to São Paulo at the age of 18, he found work and eventually carved out a notable career in samba music, creating a personal and artistic legacy that will be celebrated by fans of the genre.

Anselmo's music was molded by his experiences and observations, including his transformative encounter with Salgueiro's performance at Anhangabaú during his youth. This pivotal moment ignited his passion for samba and led him to become actively involved in the vibrant Brazilian Carnaval scene. His passing marks a significant loss for the samba community in São Paulo, but his influence will continue to resonate through his timeless contributions to samba-enredo.