Will Madeira Soon Have a Music Museum?

JPP and IL Join Forces to Champion a Music Museum in Madeira

In a recent session of the Madeira legislative assembly, the JPP (Juntos Pelo Povo) party introduced a resolution project urging the Regional Government to move forward with the long-awaited Museu da Música da Madeira. The initiative aims to highlight the cultural significance of music in Madeira, which the region is known for alongside its vibrant tourism industry.

Long-Delayed Project

Patrícia Spínola, a member of JPP, lamented that the museum project has faced extensive delays, noting that it has remained stagnant for many years despite the island’s cultural and tourism focus. She emphasized that there has been no money allocated for the museum in recent budgets, underscoring a lack of progress in its development.

Support from Iniciativa Liberal

In a show of bipartisan support, the Iniciativa Liberal (IL) also proposed the creation of the music museum. Nuno Morna, a representative from IL, presented a resolution recommending that space within the historic Fortaleza de São João Baptista do Pico be granted to the Xarabanda Musical and Cultural Association for the establishment of the Museu da Música Tradicional da Madeira.

Traditional Music of Madeira

Madeira's traditional music is a unique blend shaped by waves of settlers and influenced by outside populations and media since the 20th century. This has led to the evolution of various genres, with bailinho (brinuqinho) being the most recognizable. Characterized by simple rhythms and often sung in Sol Major, it serves as the foundation for many local dances and narrative songs, marking festive occasions. Another genre, mourisca, features a 6/8 time signature and is associated with specific dances, particularly in southern Madeira.

Upcoming Discussions

The assembly is set to discuss both initiatives, with the museum proposals taking the second spot on the agenda. The first item will involve a discussion led by Rogério Gouveia, the regional Secretary of Finance, regarding a separate legislative diploma. The collaborative efforts of JPP and IL to advance the music museum reflect a growing consensus on the need to celebrate and preserve Madeira's musical heritage.