The Grande Família Block: Keeping the Tradition of São Paulo's Carnival Alive
The Grande Família Block is a traditional carnival association from São Paulo that has celebrated the spirit of the city's street carnival for decades. Since 1986, the block has kept the essence of the old carnival alive, valuing traditional marches, sambas, and frevos.
History and Tradition
The history of the Grande Família Block dates back to 1986, when a group of friends passionate about carnival decided to create an association that would preserve carnival traditions. Since then, the block has paraded annually through the streets of São Paulo, attracting revelers of all ages.
Musical Identity
The musical style of the Grande Família Block is characterized by the predominance of carnival marches and the best of traditional carnival music. The block's percussion section is led by Mestre João Biano, who brings a contagious rhythm to the parades. In addition, the Frevo Band from Caruaru brings the authentic Pernambuco rhythm, creating a cultural fusion between the São Paulo carnival and Northeastern traditions.
Special Features
One of the unique characteristics of the Grande Família Block is its participation in the Association of Bands of São Paulo (Abasp), an organization dedicated to the preservation and promotion of traditional carnival in the city. The block also maintains an active presence on social media, facilitating the dissemination of its activities and contact with revelers.
Parades
The Grande Família Block usually parades during the official period of the São Paulo carnival, which takes place in February. The block circulates through traditional areas of the São Paulo carnival, bringing joy and music to the city streets.
Cultural Impact
The Grande Família Block is part of a movement that seeks to preserve the "carnival of yesteryear" in São Paulo. By valuing Brazilian rhythms and avoiding the incorporation of foreign rhythms, the block contributes to keeping the carnival tradition alive and offering revelers an authentic street carnival experience.
