Three Albums to Understand the Choro of Belém
From 1970s radio to live club recordings: a guided listening experience for newcomers.
The choro of Pará has always been performed more than it has been recorded. Much of the repertoire lives on in the musicians’ memories and at the Thursday jam sessions. Still, a few albums help shed light on its history.
1. The Radio Regionals
Recordings by the regional bands that accompanied singers on Belém radio stations showcase choro as an accompaniment style, always serving the voice.
2. Thursday Jam Sessions (live)
The recording of the Regional do Paço at Casa do Choro captures the sound of the jam session: conversation, drinks, and applause in the middle of a piece.
3. Beira de Rio
The first album by Conjunto Beira-Rio, set for release in October, points to where local choro might be headed: mandolin, guitar, and curimbó all within the same piece.