Bloco de Pífanos de São Paulo

Inspired by the rich tradition of fife bands from the northeastern backlands (bands cabaçais, or zabumbas) emerged in 2017, the Bloco de Pífanos de São Paulo, with the aim of popularizing the practice and disseminating the use of the instrument in the largest megalopolis on the American continent. 

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The project emerged in Felipe Gomide's house, called "House of Arches". when the musician started offering free classes at his residence in São Paulo.

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The traditional fife bands, formed by percussions and a “pair” of fifes, were one of the most important and popular musical formations throughout the northeast and mid-west of Brazil, for centuries, accompanying masses and processions as well as parties and dances of all genres.

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Trying to work both traditional repertoire of Cabaçal bands, as well as adapting music from the urban and contemporary context, the BPSP, quickly became one of the largest fife groups in the country in terms of number of instrumentalists, adapting new elements to traditional percussions,and also innovating by including the Souzafone (a relative of the Tuba), as in traditional carnival groups.

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Among the Block's missions is the connection and dissemination of the work of masters and manifestations of Brazilian popular culture, meetings and workshops with traditional players of the instrument, construction workshops, as well as shows, concerts and carnival processions.

 

Just like the enchantment caused by the northeastern cabaçai bands, which remain firm in their roots, across generations, the group seeks to promote and value this rich tradition, holding meetings with masters, empowering artisans and popular groups, helping to keep this tradition alive and vibrant rich Brazilian tradition.