Blog
The different fado styles and their characteristics

Fado, the Portuguese musical genre that emerged in Lisbon in the 19th century, is considered one of Portugal’s main cultural expressions, and over time it has evolved and diversified into different styles. We leave you some of the main fado styles and their characteristics:
Fado tradicional: Traditional fado is the oldest style of fado and is considered the most authentic. It is characterized by a simple melodic structure and a strong emphasis on the lyrics and the emotion conveyed by the fadista. Generally, traditional fado is sung with a minimalist accompaniment of viola and Portuguese guitar.
Fado de Coimbra: Coimbra fado is a variant of traditional fado that originated in the city of Coimbra. It is usually sung by university students and is characterized by the predominant use of the classical guitar instead of the Portuguese guitar. The lyrics usually talk about academic life and the city of Coimbra.
Fado corrido: Fado corrido is a livelier style than traditional fado, with a more complex melodic structure. The lyrics are usually lighter and humorous, and the musical accompaniment includes instruments such as guitar, bass, viola and Portuguese guitar.
Fado canção: Fado canção is a more modern style of fado that developed in the 1950s. It is characterized by a more elaborate melodic structure and the use of instruments such as piano and saxophone. The lyrics are often more poetic and philosophical than those of traditional fado.
Fado vadio: Fado vadio is a more improvised and informal style of fado that developed on the streets of Lisbon. It is sung by amateur fadistas and is characterized by more spontaneous lyrics and a simple musical accompaniment.
Fado de Lisboa: Lisbon fado is a style that developed in the Portuguese capital and incorporates elements of different fado styles. It is characterized by a more complex melodic structure and the use of instruments such as violin and accordion.
Each of these fado styles has its own distinct characteristics and is enjoyed by different audiences. Fado continues to evolve and adapt to modern times, but it remains an important part of Portuguese culture and an exciting form of musical expression.
Make your reservation at Casa de Fado a Severa and come to know more about Severa!
https://www.asevera.com/en/reservations/
+213 428 314 (chamada para rede fixa nacional)
+213 461 204 (chamada para rede fixa nacional)