This inaugural moment invites the audience to contemplation and reflection through a programme entirely dedicated to 16th and 17th-century Portuguese sacred polyphony, entitled "Requiem de Filipe de Magalhães". The festival is organised through a partnership between the cultural association Ideias do Levante and the Municipality of Lagoa, with the support of the Parish of Nossa Senhora da Luz.


The afternoon’s centrepiece is the six-voice "Missa Pro Defunctis" by Filipe de Magalhães, a work from the "Liber Missarum" (1636) and one of the most expressive examples of the Iberian funerary repertoire. Magalhães’ writing, deeply rooted in the plainchant tradition, is characterised by long melodies that promise to fill the sacred space with transcendent serenity. The programme will be performed by the prestigious Grupo Vocal Olisipo, a leading ensemble founded in 1988 and directed by Armando Possante, whose career includes international awards and significant collaborations at festivals worldwide.

To frame the central work, the line-up includes pieces by other prominent figures from the School of Music of the Cathedral of Évora, such as António Pinheiro, Duarte Lôbo, and Manuel Cardoso. Selected works include Duarte Lôbo’s "Sequentia Dies Irae," notable for its transparent texture, and Manuel Cardoso’s responsory "Libera me, Domine," which will close the programme with a solemn plea for deliverance. This journey through the spiritual universe of Portuguese polyphony reaffirms the Semana Coral de Lagoa's commitment to valuing one of the most precious legacies of national musical culture.

Admission to the festival concerts is free of charge, reinforcing its role as a landmark in the national cultural circuit. However, please note that for the closing concert on 24 May, it is necessary to collect a free voucher (complimentary ticket). These tickets will be available during the week preceding the show at the Carlos do Carmo Auditorium box office, Monday to Friday, from 3:00 pm to 5:00 pm. Further information regarding the programme and reservation requests can be obtained through the official website at www.semanacoral.net or by calling the Ideias do Levante general office at +351 308 800 764.