Miguel Moniz PhD

The sonic and stylistic musical diversity one finds in Portugal has grown from long standing cultural traditions and also reflects the backgrounds of the many migrants that call the country home. On a world stage Portugal is known for its futebol players, but it really should be known for its musicians. I started playing music with my family growing up, and played clarinet starting in grade school, learning the guitar afterwards, which became my primary instrument. My study of music was grade school basic until I was able to learn from musicians and mestres in Portugal. 

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Arriving in Lisbon not really knowing anyone, I found that playing music was an extraordinary way to connect to the place. In 2005 I started one of the first open mic nights in Lisbon at the first Lisbon Irish bar. I quickly gave up on the concept when it was clear that musicians in town would rather just have a controlled jam session. The night brought in many of the city's working musicians, and through these connections of music and friendship, I was invited to join other projects and able to learn and further explore the country through music. Traveling throughout Portugal, and other parts of Europe and North America playing with these projects, there really is no better way of discovering a place. You often play shows as part of local traditional social and life-cycle events (Carnival, festas populares, New Year's eve celebrations, agricultural fairs, mercados, beach parties, city clubs, etc.) and you are treated as an invited guest of the communities where the shows are being held. Given the weird liminal space occupied by an unknown troubadour, people are eager to go a little crazy and share their lives with you. A decidedly different experience than rolling into a town as even a well-informed visitor. Shows are often sponsored by local community associations or local municipal governments and they often share their communities with you while hosting the band. What this means in practical terms is that you will almost always meet fascinating people and eat lots of really good food.