Getting to know our Morabeza.
I am a creole,
Who does not want to lose his identity.
But I respect the land that has welcomed me
And I learn to live in its society
Armando Tito: ‘I had music in my heart’
Over the years, morna has been an important piece of historical text, mirroring Cape Verde’s history and day-to-day life throughout the centuries, and speaking also of the hardships of life under slavery and colonialism.
Today, it continues to be passed on through generations, and is generally played with a viola, cavaquinho, violin, piano, and a violão (guitar) – the instrument of excellence in morna. It remains part of the collective day-to-day life of many Cape Verdeans, often also being played at baptisms, weddings and funerals throughout the islands and abroad.