Biography
Specializing in frevo, the Brazilian vocal and instrumental group Oficina De Cordas draws upon a style that first took shape in Pernambuco during the 1920s and 1930s. The genre began as sonic accompaniment to carnival festivities and processions through city streets, mirroring the vivid hues and kinetic spirit of those public spectacles. In later years additional layers emerged that mirrored residents’ daily experiences, thereby weaving introspection and emotional depth into portrayals of life’s hardships. Although frevo da rua and frevo da bloco stay rooted in their urban setting, Oficina De Cordas has carried both forms to listeners beyond their origin as world-music audiences have expanded. The ensemble issued a recording on the Nimbus label in 1994.