While in Lisbon, you can be sure of getting a true feeling of what Fado music is all about. This traditional Portuguese genre with its mournful tunes and deeply felt lyrics provides an special insight into the pulse and soul of the city.
What is Fado?
Fado which means “fate” in Portuguese is a musical style that dates back to the 19th century. It incorporates a lot of expression and sometimes sad melodies played on a guitarra portuguesa (Portuguese guitar). The words usually speak about life’s difficulties, the ocean’s touch and lost love among other themes that capture the emotions of Lisbon’s people.
The History of Fado
First appearing in such localities as Alfama and Mouraria districts of Lisbon, fado was at first the music for urban poor. It later gained recognition among different social classes thereby becoming Portugal’s cultural heritage. In 2011, UNESCO proclaimed Fado an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity thereby increasing its importance.
Experiencing Fado in Lisbon
One great way to get to feel fado is by going to watch live performances. The setting within a fado house makes it easy for one to understand through the expressions conveyed by musicians. Among others, there is no better than “Fado in Chiado” live show where some well known singers perform their favourite songs for fifty minutes giving you an unforgettable experience.
A Night at “Fado in Chiado”
Situated right at the heart of Lisbon, “Fado in Chiado” offers an easily accessible introduction into fados typicality. A small intimate theatre set up permits for emotional impact during performance time. Musicians were passionate and connected well with their audience.
When I first came across “Fado in Chiado”, I was from my inner most heart hit hard by their sentiments. Despite not understanding most lyrics written in Portuguese, their voices overwhelmed me with nostalgia feeling. The Portuguese guitar with its unique sound added a deep layer of concentration that was actually stunning. It’s one of those experiences you’ll never forget after the last note is played.
Exploring More Fado Houses
Apart from “Fado in Chiado”, there are many other fados houses in Lisbon worth visiting. Alfama has traditional places like Clube de Fado and Parreirinha de Alfama where one can listen to music while taking a tasty Portuguese dinner. Such environments have remained more conventional with famous fadistas performing here most often than not.
- Clube de Fado
Positioned within the ancient district of Alfama, the most famous Fado houses in Lisbon is Clube de Fado. The place was established by Mario Pacheco, an acknowledged guitarist, and offers classically traditional Fado with some of the best musicians in the city.
- Parreirinha de Alfama
In addition to being located in the capital’s famous Alfama quarter, Parreirinha de Alfama boasts a friendly ambiance that sets it apart from its competitors. Established by one of Portugal’s great singers Argentina Santos, this venue has long been known for its quality.
- A Baiuca
A Baiuca is centrally positioned within Alfama and presents a more informal and interactive experience with fado music. It is even constructed in such a way that it invites participation by those who come to enjoy fado music; thus making it quite different from all other locations where fados are performed.
- O Faia
O Faia is also found in Bairro Alto and happens to be one among the oldest and most respected places where one can hear live Fados in Lisbon till today. Founded by Lucilia do Carmo a legend of Fados O Faia still hosts some of Portugal’s topmost fadistas.
- Tasca do Chico
For an easier-going experience while enjoying Fado music, Tasca do Chico at Bairro Alto is just what you need! This popular tavern is best known for its “Fado Vadio” nights (amateur artists are welcome).
