The Time-Honored Tradition of Singing in Porto: TUNA and Beyond
Porto, with its rich cultural heritage and vibrant festivals, has a tradition that is both unique and deeply rooted in community spirit: the act of singing in the streets. This article explores the significance of this tradition, which is particularly prevalent during the Festa de S?o Jo?o (Saint John's Festival) and the TUNA and Janeiras traditions among university students.
Saint John's Festival: A Time for Singing and Celebration
The Festa de S?o Jo?o is one of the most prominent and lively festivals in Porto. Celebrated in June, this festival marks the start of summer and honors Saint John. During the festivities, groups of people often sing in the streets, engaging in street parties and enjoying fireworks. Participants are commonly seen in matching outfits, often traditional or themed costumes, which contribute to the festive atmosphere.
The tradition of singing in the streets dates back to the communal spirit of the festival, where everyone participates in the joy and merriment. The songs often include traditional folk tunes, and singing together fosters a sense of unity and celebration among the participants. This celebration reflects the cultural heritage and communal joy associated with Porto's local traditions.
The TUNA: A Time-Honored Tradition Among University Students
Beyond the Festa de S?o Jo?o, Porto's university students have their own tradition of singing in the streets, though not necessarily during the festival. Known as TUNA, this is a group tradition that includes university students in traditional academic dress, perpetuating a ritual that likely originated in the 13th century.
A TUNA is a group of university students who play traditional instruments and sing serenades. The tradition originated in Spain and Portugal as a means for students to earn money or food. While modern students do not participate in TUNAs for money, the tradition persists as a way to preserve cultural heritage and have fun. The outfits worn by the students are a sign of group identity and adhere to a strict code of use.
Interestingly, the name "TUNA" may come from the French term "roi de Thunes," meaning "king of Tunis," which was a title used by leaders of vagabonds. TUNAS are not official university groups, but rather quasi-organized entities that perform serenades and other cultural activities. The performance of Portuguese medical students from Coimbra during a trip to Munich in Germany provides a fascinating example of this tradition in action.
The Janeiras: Singing in January
In addition to the TUNA, another form of street singing in Porto is known as Janeiras. These are traditional groups of singers who gather in the streets of Porto, particularly in the month of January, to sing songs in praise of Jesus and the Holy Virgin. These songs are typically performed by groups of people who dress in costumes, often reflecting the themes of the songs or the time of year.
The Janeiras are an ancient tradition that is deeply rooted in the history of Porto. They serve as a reminder of the city's cultural heritage and the importance of community and celebration. While the specific places and times of year when Janeiras occur may vary, they are an integral part of Porto's festive calendar, adding to the city's unique charm and character.
The tradition of singing in the streets of Porto, whether it be during the Festa de S?o Jo?o, as part of a TUNA, or in the form of Janeiras, reflects the city's rich cultural heritage and the communal joy that defines Porto's festivals and traditions. These practices continue to be celebrated and perpetuated by both locals and visitors, ensuring that the spirit of Porto's cultural traditions remains alive for generations to come.