Influential world music conference WOMEX returned to an in-person format in 2021 that attracted 2,600 registered participants. WOMEX took place October 27-31, 2021 in Porto, Portugal.
The Opening show, Porto ReFolk Express was programmed by Mauro Rodrigues, Revolução d’Alegria. The four artists, all hailing from Portugal were Galandum Galundaina along with special guest Pauliteiros de Miranda, Retimbrar performing with special guest, Uxía Seiva from neighboring Galicia in Spain; and Sopa de Pedra.
WOMEX Porto included five intense days of networking, meetings, conferences, showcases, movie screenings and re-connecting with the world music community.
The music showcases are an essential component of the annual conference. This year, WOMEX presented more than 60 showcase artists representing 290 musicians spread throughout seven stages. The event also included 24 music-based documentaries from 24 countries; 110 speakers and mentors who participated in the conference sessions; and a busy trade fair with 620 exhibiting companies at 200 booths (stands or stalls).
The Award ceremony took place at Teatro Rivoli in Porto celebrating the achievements of the two award recipients and the independent recording world with the top 20 Labels of the Year presentation. The WOMEX 2021 Professional Excellence Award was received by Lisa Whytock on behalf of the Global Music Match; and Aynur received the WOMEX Artist Award; she gave a memorable performance to an enthusiastic audience.
More about WOMEX: www.womex.com
(headline image: Lucia de Carvalho at WOMEX 2021 – Photo by Eric Van Nieuwland)
Author: World Music Central News Room
World music news from the editors at World Music Central
I love the Seiva excerpt @ 03:04 on the WOMEX 21 opening video. I can’t stop watching and rewatching it. I would love to know what the name of that song is, and if it will be on their next album, and if a video of the whole song can be seen somewhere.
Hi Timothy
This song is called “Chula Cega” (Blind Chula) . Chula is a portuguese traditional type of rhythm and dance and the song is talking about the blindness of the first love. It will be our next single of the new album. We’ll release it very soon, and the end of this year. Stay tunned 🙂
Joana
Hi Joana,
Thank you for identifying the name and character of that incredible song. I love its intensity, especially your bagpipe playing and the drumming. I am eagerly awaiting the release of your new album.
Timothy