Velha Guarda da Mangueira

Origin

Rio de Janeiro, RJ

Years active

1943

Genres

samba, samba de terreiro

Instruments

acoustic guitar, cavaco, percussion

Biography

The Velha Guarda da Mangueira is a traditional Brazilian samba band founded in 1943 by historical figures of the Estação Primeira de Mangueira samba school, including Cartola, Carlos Cachaça, and Aloísio Dias. To join the group, members must be over 60 years old and have been associated with the school for more than 30 years, serving as living guardians of Rio de Janeiro's samba memory. Over the decades, the ensemble has featured legendary figures such as Delegado, Mocinha, and Tia Irene, preserving the authentic roots of terreiro samba.

Throughout its history, the band has achieved international recognition and critical acclaim, notably receiving a Latin Grammy nomination in 2000 for the album "Velha Guarda da Mangueira e Convidados". Their discography includes landmark releases such as their self-titled album originally produced in Japan in 1989, collaborative works with the Velha Guarda da Portela, and contributions to projects alongside prominent artists like Chico Buarque. In March 2024, the group was officially recognized as an intangible cultural heritage of the city of Rio de Janeiro.