Ambassador Francisco Duarte Lopes with his wife and artists

Ambassador Francisco Duarte Lopes with the author

 

Musical Diplomacy Unites Nationalities at Portuguese Ambassador's Residence
By C. Naseer Ahmad

 

Washington, DC: Get ready to be transported to a world of enchantment and unity! On the evening of May 28, 2024, the Portuguese Ambassador's residence in Washington, DC became the stage for an extraordinary event that transcended borders and brought people together through the power of music. In collaboration with the Embassy of Portugal, the renowned organization, Embassy Series, dedicated to musical diplomacy, created an unforgettable experience at the edge of Rock Creek Park.

At the heart of this captivating event were two distinguished Portuguese artists – the critically acclaimed pianist, Nuno Marques, and the mesmerizing soprano, Lora Martins. Together, they embarked on a pioneering performance that interwove the timeless words of celebrated Portuguese poets from various eras, including Luis de Camoes, Eugenio de Andrade, and Pedro Mexia.

This event not only touched the hearts of Washington, DC residents but even reached those in Lahore, Pakistan, who share a common connection with Lisbon through their national poets. While the Lisbon airport is dedicated to the memory of Luis de Camoes, the Lahore airport honors Allama Iqbal. Moreover, the Portuguese Ambassador's own diplomatic journey began in Islamabad, adding an additional layer of significance for the Pakistanis. In a world marked by authoritarian regimes and dictators, with which Pakistan is quite familiar, the Portuguese experience offered a glimmer of hope for a brighter future, no matter how distant it may seem.

Each meticulously chosen poem performed by Marques and Martins carried a profound purpose and subtle message. One particularly poignant piece, delicately sung by Martins, was "Date" or "Data" in Portuguese. Within its haunting beauty, this poem metaphorically depicts the suffocation endured by Portuguese society under an oppressive regime until the Carnation Revolution set them free. Its essence resonated with all who have faced similar struggles against authoritarian rule, capturing the spirit of resistance. The poem's words spoke volumes:

"A time of loneliness and uncertainty,

A time of fear and betrayal,

A time of injustice and denial of vile time,

A time of cowardice and wrath,

A time of masquerades and lies,

Time that kills those who denounce it,

A time of slavery,

Deceptive time without records,

Silent time and silenced time,

Time where blood leaves no trace,

Time of threats."

But amidst the somber tones, love found its place in this masterful performance. Martins skillfully serenaded the audience with Luis de Camoes's tender poem:

"I place my eyes on a sling,

And took a shot with her

Towards the bars of a window."

The evening took an unexpected turn when a hundred-year-old piano graced the stage. With the Ambassador's charming wife Paula by his side, an impromptu surprise song unfolded, leaving the audience captivated and cheering with joy. It was at her initiative that this piano gained a new lease on life.

As the performance drew to a close, Ambassador Francisco Duarte Lopes and his wife graciously hosted a delectable Portuguese buffet, further delighting attendees with the culinary wonders of Portugal.

This extraordinary night of musical and poetic magic at the Portuguese Ambassador's residence showcased the incredible power of music as a universal language. The Embassy Series once again demonstrated their unwavering commitment to musical diplomacy, bridging the gap among people of diverse nationalities and professional backgrounds. This event served as a reminder of the importance of unity and harmony in our wonderfully diverse world.