UNICAMP's zíper na boca [mouth zipper] choir: a 30-year path marked by challenges and innovations

Abstract

Created in September 1985, with the purpose of restarting the then-extinguished Unicamp Choir's activities, the group was supported by the Extension Pro-Rectorate (PRE) in its first years. In 1990, it was linked to the Cultural Diffusion and Integration Hub (NIDIC), current Cultural Diffusion, Documentation and Integration Center (CIDDIC). Since its foundation, its purpose is to provide students and employees from various university departments with the development of an extension activity in the cultural and artistic area. Along its path, the group faced various challenges: lack of physical space and equipment, lack of human resources in the manufacturing area, lack of resources to make projects viable, etc. Thanks to the dedication of its members and leader, as well as the support from some university sectors, such difficulties were overcome in a creative and innovative way, bringing the public recognition as a result. It was awarded in 03 editions of the Mapa Cultural Paulista [São Paulo's Cultural Map], representing Campinas region in this important project from State Culture Secretariat. It represented Brazil at the XXVI Festival Internacional de Coros de Galvez [International Choir Festival in Galvez], Argentina (1997). In 2000, it recorded its first album. The musical Os Saltimbancos [The Street Entertainers] assembly and the inauguration of Unicamp Choir Festival (currently with 11 editions held) marked the Choir's 20 years. Since 2010, the incorporation of the scenic movement is the group's trademark, with the preparation of assemblies such as ABBA Forever, QUEEN Rhapsody, Canta Brasil [Sing Brazil], Love is all you need, Swingin with the Saints and Retrospectiva 30 anos [30-year Retrospective]. In 2011, it received the Carlos Gomes Medal, awarded by Campinas City Council for the relevant services in the artistic field.