Portuguese Music & Dance Styles: Fado, Folklore, and Modern Beats

Portugal has sad songs for the soul, lively dances for the villages, and electronic beats for the clubs.

1. Fado (The Song of Saudade)

Born in Lisbon's Alfama district. One singer, one Portuguese guitar, one feeling: deep longing for something lost.

• Singer wears black

• Audience must listen in silence

• Tears are welcome

• UNESCO World Heritage

2. Vira (Northern Circle Dance)

Traditional folk dance from Minho. Couples dance in a large circle holding hands. Fast and joyful.

• Women wear embroidered skirts

• Men wear wool vests and flat caps

• Music played with bagpipes and drum

• Danced during summer festivals

3. Corridinho (Southern Couple Dance)

Folk dance from Algarve. Fast and playful. Couples face each other and move feet rapidly in a small space.

• Influenced by polka and mazurka

• Feet move very fast, bodies stay still

• Danced in small restaurants

• Very popular at weddings

4. Pimba (Portuguese Happy Music)

Cheerful, simple, slightly silly pop music. Played at every village festival, wedding, and birthday party. Everyone knows the lyrics.

• Lyrics are funny and sometimes romantic

• Features accordion and simple drums

• Dancing involves waving arms and jumping

• Very popular with older generations

• Young people secretly love it but deny it