Folk Group of the Hall

Category: Culture and Entertainment > Community Centre

District: Açores > Horta > Horta > Salão

Location

The Salão Folklore Group is based in the parish of Salão, a quiet and picturesque area on the island of Faial, an integral part of the locality of Horta. This area is known for its welcoming atmosphere and strong cultural identity. The parish of Salão itself is often associated with the nickname "folgazões" (merrymakers), an epithet that well reflects the cheerful and festive spirit rooted in its community and rich popular traditions.

The Legacy of Songs and Dances

This group is passionately dedicated to the preservation and promotion of the authentic dances and songs of the parish of Salão and the entire island of Faial. Their performances are a mirror of the old local traditions, recreating the atmosphere of "serões", evening gatherings held in private homes, where people would come together for tasks such as threshing corn, preparing straw, or the complex braiding for hat making.

With a repertoire that remains faithful to the original sound and movements, the group brings to life iconic choreographies such as the vibrant chamarrita and the melodious lira, transporting viewers to the genuine Azorean cultural roots and allowing for an immersion in the island's customs and history.

History and Recognition

Founded in 1967 at the primary school of Salão, this cultural group evolved to become a Public Utility Recreational and Cultural Association, demonstrating a lasting commitment to Azorean folklore. With about 36 members, the Salão Folklore Group has stood out for maintaining the authenticity and original level of performances from the era it represents.

This rigor and dedication have earned it recognition beyond its borders, with participations in international festivals in Europe and the United States of America. Their performances, for example, have been praised for the vitality of their dancers and the uniqueness of their cheerful straw hats. In 2002, the group consolidated its identity with the release of its own anthem, which, through its lyrics and melody, pays homage to the customs of the parish of Salão, reinforcing the deep connection between the group and its homeland.

License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt