Following a tradition in Lisbon, on December 1st, Avenida da Liberdade hosts the National Parade of Philharmonic Bands, part of the celebrations of the Restoration of Independence in Portugal.
In this 11th edition, 32 bands participate, coming from several parts of the country and composed of musicians from different generations, with more than 1500 participants.
The Atei Drum Group, from Mondim de Basto, opens the 11th National Philharmonic Band Parade, starting at 3pm. Founded more than two decades ago, the group is made up of players who maintain the tradition of the old Zés Pereiras, an artistic and cultural model of traditional Portuguese percussion from Trás-os-Montes.
At the end of the parade, as usual, the bands gather at Praça dos Restauradores for a joint performance, this year under the direction of Maestro Délio Gonçalves, head of the Banda da Armada Portuguesa. An interpretation of the Anthem of Maria da Fonte, the Anthem of the Restoration and the National Anthem A Portuguesa which features the special participation of soloist Alessandra Samuel and the Coro dos Pupilos do Império.
Once more, Lisbon welcomes this initiative that aims to honor and disseminate a centuries-old musical practice that is fundamental for the musical and professional training of young people across the country.
The Philharmonic Bands Parade is an initiative organized by the 1st of December Movement, Historical Society of the Independence of Portugal, Lisbon City Council and EGEAC.
See the parade line-up at this link
