Updated on Sep.17, 2011
Conxitas, a rare Olinda Carnival group formed just by women - it is, of this writing, said to be the only one in that category - parades a few times every Carnival playing traditional music rhythms such as maracatu, frevo, ciranda, coco, samba and afoxé.
The group, whose full name is Grupo Artístico Percussivo Conxitas, was formed in 2005 by 50 women. Today, hundreds of women of all ages participate in their parades, which are divided into several alas, or sections, each one highlighting a cultural aspect of Pernambuco music.
Conxitas also perform as a smaller group in festivals and shows throughout the year, always with a strong focus on percussion. You can see them in important cultural events such as Maracatu Day (Aug.1), when they parade on the hills of Olinda's historic district, from their headquarters on Rua Prudente de Moraes to the city hall.
Teaching is another important role played by the group. Every year, Conxitas offer workshops to women who want to play authentic Pernambuco music on instruments such as the alfaia, agogô, gonguê, agbê and timbal.
Conxitas in Olinda Carnival 2012:
The group started their pre-Carnival activities in August, with the first percussion and dance workshops for newcomers and rehearsals. Check out for updates on their website and Twitter (@conxitas).
Their Carnival parade dates will be posted on the Official Olinda Carnival 2012 Guide under "Programação".
