Cante Alentejano, recognised by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, made its way to Japan. On 10 and 11 May, the Rancho de Cantadores de Vila Nova de São Bento gave deeply moving performances, bringing to Expo 2025 Osaka the earthy strength of a tradition born of community.
To mark this participation, the Alentejo Regional Coordination and Development Commission curated a three-day programme — from 9 to 11 May — to honour the region’s cultural heritage and longstanding connection with Japan. The programme introduced the Japanese public to the Alentejo’s rich intangible heritage, with particular emphasis on Cante Alentejano.
On 10 May, the Rancho de Cantadores de Vila Nova de São Bento performed in their own name, sharing the power of an oral tradition still very much alive in the communities of Lower Alentejo. With no instruments — just voices blending in unison and counterpoint — they moved the Japanese audience with faithful renditions rooted in centuries-old customs.
To mark this participation, the Alentejo Regional Coordination and Development Commission curated a three-day programme — from 9 to 11 May — to honour the region’s cultural heritage and longstanding connection with Japan. The programme introduced the Japanese public to the Alentejo’s rich intangible heritage, with particular emphasis on Cante Alentejano.
On 10 May, the Rancho de Cantadores de Vila Nova de São Bento performed in their own name, sharing the power of an oral tradition still very much alive in the communities of Lower Alentejo. With no instruments — just voices blending in unison and counterpoint — they moved the Japanese audience with faithful renditions rooted in centuries-old customs.
