Abstract:
A study that highlights when, how, and to what extent the viola de arame amarantina (Amarantina wire-string guitar) was used and later appropriated by the community of Amarante and its surrounding areas. Through a community-based case study using an interpretative/qualitative approach with ethnographic characteristics, the ethnographic and historical narrative of the viola de arame amarantina was developed, describing the object and the context in which it existed at the time. This study presents evidence supporting (1) the history of the existence of the viola amarantina; (2) the contexts in which the instrument is most commonly found; (3) a physical description of the viola and its construction process; (4) some examples of violas and the names of luthiers and players; (5) suggested safeguarding measures for this cultural expression. It was concluded that the viola de arame amarantina is one of the cultural manifestations of this community, located in the region of Entre Douro e Minho. While Amarante is its central hub, the instrument has national relevance within Portugal.
Author: Instituto de Imersão Cultural – Stay to Talk (IIC)
Coordination: Carolina Mendes
Team: Carolina Mendes and Sofia Mesquita
Scientific Component: José António Neves
Pedagogical and Executive Component: Rui Fernandes; Chico Gouveia; Eduardo Costa; Cândido Costa
Instrument Maker: António Teixeira da Silva
Funding and Promoter:
Município de Amarante
Start Date:
November 2, 2022
End Date:
February 29, 2024
Keywords:
Viola Amarantina; Wire-String Guitars; Chordophones; Local Culture; Traditional Music; Amarante; Between the Minho and Douro; Intangible Cultural Heritage