Frederico Pires Valério, born on June 11, 1913, in Lisbon, Portugal, was a pioneering composer in the genre of "Fado-Canção." His early passion for music led him to study at the Academia de Amadores de Música and later at the National Conservatory of Music, where he focused on piano. Valério's professional career began at the age of 19 with the play "A Feira da Alegria," and he quickly became one of the most esteemed composers of his time, alongside figures like Raúl Portela and Frederico de Freitas.

Valério's compositions were integral to the musical theater and fado repertoires, with notable works for productions such as "Anima-te, Zé!" and "Milho Rei." In the 1940s, his collaboration with the legendary fado singer Amália Rodrigues resulted in some of her most celebrated songs, including "Ai Mouraria" and "Fado do Ciúme." Valério was instrumental in the development of modern "Fado-Canção," a sub-genre that, despite initial resistance from purists, was embraced by many renowned fadistas.

In 1947, Valério expanded his talents to cinema, composing soundtracks for films like "Capas Negras" and "Aqui, Portugal." His success in Portugal led him to the United States in 1948, where he achieved remarkable success, including a number 1 hit on the Hit Parade with "Don’t Say Goodbye" and two Broadway musicals, "On with the Show" and "Hit the Trail."

Valério's influence extended internationally, with his works gaining popularity in Brazil, Germany, France, and England. Upon returning to Portugal, he continued to compose for artists such as Simone de Oliveira and Cidália Moreira. In recognition of his contributions to music, a street in Lisbon's Caselas neighborhood is named after him. Frederico Valério passed away on May 29, 1982, in Lisbon, leaving a lasting legacy as a pivotal figure in Portuguese music.