Fado: Authentic Tradition and Where to Experience Portugal’s Rich Music

/ Culture, Europe / By
AuthenticFadoExperience

Fado is a unique, traditional style of Portuguese music that began in the early 1800s in Lisbon. The term ‘fado’ is derived from the Latin word meaning ‘fate.’ The symbolism of the terminology of the music connects to the deep emotions portrayed in its lyrics. The songs display tragedy, love, and jealousy through the words that dance off the singer’s mouth and fill the room with magical, melancholic sounds. As Fado singers take the stage, they are generally accompanied by acoustic sounds, such as violas, guitars, or even a cello or bass, that enhance how enchanting the music is. Like a waltz, the pieces utilize a double-time rhythm and triple-time. When I first heard Fado music in Portugal, the singer sounded like she was holding a microphone, but it was just the natural intonation of Fado music vibrating and engulfing the space. The listening experience was mesmerizing. Fado music can be heard throughout Portugal in various venues ranging from restaurants offering dinner and a show to a courtyard or cafe. It is a must-do experience to listen to the art of Portuguese culture live. Are you wondering where to go? 

There is an abundance of places in Lisbon to listen to Fado music. Here is a list of the top spots to go to: 

      1. O Corrido (Casa de Fado) 

      1. Sr. Fado 

      1. O Faia 

      1. Parreirinha de Alfama 

      1. Casa de Linhares 

      1. Sr. Vinho 

      1. Mesa De Frades 

      1. Maria da Mouraria – Casa de Fados 

      1. Adega Machado 

      1. A Baiuca 

    Are you traveling in Coimbra? Here is a list of the 5 top locations to hear Fado music in that area: 

        1. Fado ao Centro

        1. Diligência Bar

        1. À Capella – Casa de Fados

        1. Arcada Comes e Bebes

        1. O Trovador

      Are you thinking of exploring Porto? These 5 places are the best spots to listen to Fado in Porto: 

          1. Ideal Clube de Fado

          1. Taberna Real do Fado

          1. Fado na Baixa

          1. A Casa do Fado

          1. O Fado

        Enjoy the incredible sounds and vibrations of the art of Portuguese music! You can listen to the top Fado musicians, such as Alfredo Marceneiro, Maria Teresa de Noronha, Frei Hermano da Câmara, D. Vicente da Câmara, and Amália Rodrigues, in your home. This is truly an incredibly magical aspect of Portuguese culture!

        Not all those who wander are lost – TTT

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