In the Azores, the Sociedade Filarmónica is more than just a musical group—it is a pillar of community life, a non-profit cultural school, and a keeper of local identity. These amateur bands, found across the nine islands and even in the diaspora, provide a vital cultural heartbeat for small towns. They are the soundtrack to our festivals, religious feasts, and social gatherings, embodying the deep-rooted musical tradition of the archipelago.
When I first arrived in the charming town of Ribeirinha, I heard a story about a recent loss: the town’s beloved hometown band had dissolved. But this isn’t a story of defeat—it’s a tale of revival, thanks to the dedication of one man, Marco Furtado, and the spirited musicians of this little Azorean community.
A hometown band is the pulse of a small town. They are essential for every local festivity, parade, and celebration. They don’t just provide music; they provide the soundtrack to our community life. They also partner with the local dance group, the Marcha Popular Ribeirinha, giving dancers the live music their art deserves, and they proudly represent Ribeirinha at events across the islands.
A Historic Connection to the Golden Mermaid Villa
Our connection to the music scene is historic! The Golden Mermaid Villa stands right next door to the band’s home: the Sociedade Filarmónica Santíssimo Salvador do Mundo. This is no coincidence—the land for the building was actually donated to the city by the villa’s second owner, Joaquim Maria Cabral!
This proximity means we’re constantly treated to the joyful sounds of practice. It’s an authentic, daily immersion into local culture. And we have a special tradition: every August, the band pays a musical visit, playing a special song right outside the villa for our guests.
From Parade March to Pop Star
Last week, the band hosted a concert at the local Casa do Povo. They started with the classic parade marches—songs we all know by heart. But as the evening went on, they launched into some truly fantastic surprises. Who knew a philharmonic band could groove like this? Check out the video below to see them play their incredible arrangement of a Lady Gaga hit!
Becoming Part of the Family
The villa’s connection to the band runs even deeper now. One of the talented musicians has joined our team part-time to help manage the rooms and look after our guests when I’m away. His name is David, and he is Marco Furtado’s son.
Slowly but surely, I am weaving into the fabric of this wonderful community in Ribeirinha, on the Azores’ green island. It’s experiences like hearing the band practice from your bedroom window or chatting with David about his latest concert that make the Golden Mermaid Villa more than just a place to stay—it’s a home base for authentic Azorean life.
A New Tune: The Search for a Maestro
However, this inspiring story now has a bittersweet note. Shortly after their fantastic concert, the town received news that the Band Master has unfortunately decided to step down.
This is a real challenge for the Sociedade Filarmónica Santíssimo Salvador do Mundo. A band master is the musical heart and soul of the group, and finding the right leader is crucial to keeping this vital tradition alive. The town of Ribeirinha is now actively searching for a talented individual to step up and take the baton.
We are hopeful the community spirit that brought the band back in the first place will help them find a new leader quickly. After all, the parades, the Marcha Popular Ribeirinha, and the annual serenade at the Golden Mermaid Villa depend on it!
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Anthony “Tiger” Liu is an American expat and the operator of Golden Mermaid Villa and Longevity Habit retreat, where he shares a passion for the vibrant culture and nourishing lifestyle of São Miguel.
