Tammy Weis Sings Fernando Pessoa

It was amongst the paintings and illustrations of a contemporary artist at a gallery in the heart of Lisbon’s Alfama district, that was the inspiration for Tammy Weis’ latest project. The art focused on the images of the great poet Fernando Pessoa and acted as a catalyst for the Canadian singer and composer to collaborate with local and foreign musicians, and embark on creating a sound that matched poetry starting from Pessoa’s early years in South Africa and the atmosphere of Lisbon’s mythical area Alfama. This was Tammy’s starting point, and from there she constructed a folk oriented soundscape embedded in her beloved jazz. Joining to produce and perform on the album is Portugal’s very own and renowned Rui Veloso.

The concert will last around 60 minutes, starting with an introduction of about three minutes about the context of the album to be presented, made by an actor (we will mention his name shortly). 11 songs to follow.

«The recording, and broader diffusion, of this song cycle will further strengthen cultural links between Canada, Portugal and other countries, resonating both with Canada’s substantial Portuguese community and beyond.» – Elizabeth Rice Madan, (Former Ambassador of Canada to Portugal)

«Tammy with her beautiful voice has adapted my uncle’s poetry in a new unique way.» – Luís Miguel Rosa Dias (Nephew of Fernando Pessoa)

«Her passion and clear transformative vision beautifully evangelizes the depth of Fernando Pessoa’s poetry; a legacy I trust in the sensitive musical hands of brilliant Canadian artist Tammy Weis.» – Clara Riso, Director Casa Fernando Pessoa

«Tammy Weis has explored the very soul of Portugal through the poetry of Pessoa, the mythology of Lisbon’s Alfama region and wonderful musical collaborators to create an authentic, personal and truly magical sound tapestry.» – Julian Joseph, BBC Radio 3