O Bloco Porre Certo: A Historical and Musical Journey in Rio's Carnival
In the heart of the Praça Seca neighborhood in Rio de Janeiro, there is a carnival bloco (street band) that carries in its roots a rich and diverse history. The Porre Certo, founded in 2003 by Ivon Soares, is not only one of the oldest blocos in the region, but also one of the most fascinating due to its origin and traditions.
Complete History of the Bloco
The Porre Certo has its roots in the 1930s, when Ivon's grandfather, a saxophonist, led a regional choro ensemble that transformed into a bloco during carnival. In 1953, the saxophonist's son, Seu Nogair, took over the leadership and maintained the family tradition until the 1980s[1]. This period is considered crucial for the formation of what we know today as Porre Certo.
Founders and Important Figures
Ivon Soares, the current founder of the bloco, is a central figure in the history of Porre Certo. He inherited the family tradition and, in 2003, created Enxame, which later became Porre Certo. Ivon is known for his humor and irreverence, characteristics that are reflected in the bloco's style[1].
Musical Identity
The musical style of Porre Certo is a vibrant mix of samba-enredo (theme samba), carnival classics, and original songs. Each year, the bloco chooses a different theme for its samba-enredo, which is chosen after a dispute among community members. The music is composed by community members, including Ivon's wife, who has won several times in disputes[1]. The repertoire includes historical sambas and songs by famous Mangueira artists, such as Beth Carvalho, Chico Buarque, and Jamelão[1].
Traditions and Rituals
The Porre Certo is known for its festive atmosphere and camaraderie. The party starts on Rua Carimã, better known as Buraco do Ouro, and unfolds through streets like Chacrinha, Luiz Beltrão, and Parintins. The name "Porre Certo" is precisely a reference to the tradition of drinking cachaça (Brazilian rum) during the parade[1]. The bloco is also marked by the presence of musical instruments made by residents of the region, adding a unique texture to the sound.
Territory and Belonging
The Porre Certo parades in the border region between Praça Seca and Vila Valqueire. Rehearsals take place in specific locations in the community, and the traditional parade route is one of the main attractions of the region[1]. The location of the bloco is significant, as it reflects the cultural diversity of the region, where Afro-descendants contributed incredibly to the formation of the area[1].
Evolution and Historical Milestones
In 2011, under the consultancy of carnival designer Paulo Barros, Porre Certo reached its first parade in the elite of Rio's carnival, which honored the plastic artist Romero Britto. Although it was relegated soon after, this participation marks an important milestone in the history of the bloco[1]. Since then, Porre Certo has continued to stand out with its own identity and traditions.
Cultural Impact
The Porre Certo not only contributes to the cultural scene of Rio, but is also an integral part of the local community. It interacts deeply with the community, where old and young gather to celebrate carnival. The Externato Nossa Senhora da Conceição children's school, which has been operating since 1954, has always supported the bloco and is honored annually[1]. This community interaction is one of the most unique aspects of the bloco.
Current Structure
The Porre Certo is composed