G.R.E.S. Portela

Also known as

Gres, Portela

Years Active

1923–present

Genres

samba, carnival music

Biography

G.R.E.S. Portela, often referred to simply as Portela, is one of the most traditional and successful samba schools in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Founded on April 11, 1923, in the Oswaldo Cruz and Madureira neighborhoods, Portela has a rich history deeply intertwined with the evolution of Carnival and samba music in Brazil. The school is renowned for its vibrant parades, iconic blue and white colors, and a long list of championship titles.

Over the decades, Portela has been a cradle for numerous talented samba musicians, composers, and performers, contributing significantly to the Brazilian music scene. Its legacy is built on a foundation of strong community roots and a dedication to preserving and celebrating samba culture. The school's influence extends beyond the Carnival parades, shaping the cultural identity of Rio de Janeiro and Brazil as a whole.

Portela's enduring success is a testament to its organizational strength, the passion of its members, and its ability to consistently produce high-quality samba enredos (theme songs) and captivating performances. The school continues to be a major force in the Rio Carnival, inspiring new generations with its rich heritage and vibrant spirit.

Discography

• A Vitoriosa Escola de Samba da Portela (1957)
• E.S. Portela – Solistas: Abilio Martins e Zézinho – Grandes Sucessos da E.S. Portela (1962)
• Portela / Império Serrano – Samba no Chão (1962)
• Escola de Samba da Portela (1972)
• Sambas de Terreiro / 1972 (1972)
• História das Escolas de Samba - Portela (1975)
• G.R.E.S. Portela, G.R.E.S. Estação Primeira de Mangueira – Folklore Del Mundo: Brasil (1981)
• 10 Anos de Samba-Enredo - G. R. E. S. Portela (1984)
• Coisa Boa de Montão (1992)
• G.R.E.S. Estação Primeira de Mangueira, G.R.E.S. União da Ilha do Governador, G.R.E.S. Portela, G.R.E.S. Beija-Flor, G.R.E.S. Imperatriz Leopoldinense, G.R.E.S. Mocidade Independente de Padre Miguel, G.R.E.S. Unidos de Vila Isabel, G.R.E.S. Império Serrano – OS MELHORES SAMBAS de ENREDO de TODOS os TEMPOS VOL 1 (1993)
• Escola de Samba Portela 1959 (2022)
• Os Sambas que Não Desfilaram (Portela) (2023)
• Portela de Novo Carnaval 71
• Escola de Samba