An exciting Brazilian vocal and instrumental ensemble, Oficina De Cordas specialize in frevo, a musical style that developed in Pernambuco in the 20s and 30s. Originally, the music was played at carnivals and during street parades and was an auditory response to the vibrant colour and excitement of these occasions. Gradually, other elements were added that reflected the everyday lives of the citizens, thus introducing introspection and a heartfelt response to sometimes difficult lives. These two forms, frevo da rua and frevo da bloco, are necessarily tightly linked to the city but through Oficina De Cordas it has been heard and appreciated elsewhere as world music develops its audience. The ensemble recorded an album for the Nimbus label in 1994.