Grupo Bongar

Origin

Olinda, PE

Years Active

2001

Genres

samba de coco, coco da xambá, maracatu, candomblé, afro-brazilian music, traditional music

Instruments

alfaia, ganzá, abê, caixa, congas, ilu, tabicas, berimbau, atabaque

Biography

Grupo Bongar is a percussion and vocal ensemble formed in 2001 in Olinda, Pernambuco, Brazil. Composed of six members, all of whom are percussionists and singers, they utilize a variety of instruments including alfaia, ganzá, abê, caixa, congas, ilu, and tabicas. The group's music is deeply rooted in the traditions of the Nação Xambá, an Afro-Brazilian community located in Olinda. Grupo Bongar's work focuses on the rescue and dissemination of the culture and religion of the Xambá Nation, expressed through their traditional dance, coco, and more recently, through Jurema rituals. Their performances showcase the rich musicality of Coco da Xambá, a rhythm prominent in Northeastern Brazil, alongside other traditional rhythms like ciranda, maracatu, and candomblé.

The members of Grupo Bongar are descendants of the Xambá community and have inherited their musical traditions from childhood, learning from elders during ceremonies at Casa Xambá. This deep connection to their heritage allows them to present an authentic representation of their culture. Beyond their musical performances, the group also engages in educational activities, offering workshops on percussion, popular dance, and instrument making. They aim to provide audiences with an understanding of the historical and cultural formation of the Xambá Nation, highlighting the daily life and religiosity of their people.

Grupo Bongar has gained recognition both nationally and internationally, participating in numerous festivals and events. Their music blends traditional Afro-Brazilian sounds with contemporary influences, creating a unique and powerful artistic expression. They have released several albums and a DVD, documenting their contributions to the preservation and promotion of Pernambuco's cultural heritage. Their work is characterized by a strong emphasis on art, spirituality, and rhythm, serving as a vital link to ancestral sounds and traditions.

Discography

• Macumbadaboa (2019)
• Festa de Terreiro (2021)