The Academia de Amadores de Música, one of Portugal's oldest and most respected music schools, is facing imminent eviction from its home of 68 years located at Rua Nova da Trindade, Chiado, Lisbon. President Pedro Martins Barata delivered the somber news, emphasizing, "Estamos a menos de duzentos dias de ter de sair" (We are less than 200 days away from having to leave). This phrase echoed throughout the conference, highlighting the gravity of their situation as they await public assistance.
Founded in 1884, the academy has played a significant role in the cultural fabric of Lisbon, providing musical education and exposure to talented individuals who have gone on to achieve great things. The institution's pending eviction, scheduled for August 30, poses not just logistical challenges but risks erasing nearly seven decades of cultural activity at this historic location.
While the academy's administration remains hopeful for intervention either from the Câmara de Lisboa or the government, Barata expressed frustration over the lack of concrete solutions. The academy's impending eviction is the result of mounting pressures, and the leadership asserts they have been alerting various authorities to their predicament since 2017. “Desde 2017 que temos alertado junto de diferentes entidades” (Since 2017 we have alerted various entities), Barata noted, underlining the long-standing concern for their future.
The initial promise of relocation to the neighboring building, previously occupied by the Estúdios Victor Córdon, was seen as a ray of hope. Carlos Moedas, the president of the Câmara de Lisboa, announced this potential solution last November. Unfortunately, this was met with complications, as significant stakeholders such as the Junta de Freguesia de Santa Maria Maior, which has laid claim to the building and declared it was not consulted about the use of the space, vehemently opposed the relocation. They argued, “O problema da AAM não se resolve despejando a Junta” (The problem of AAM is not solved by evicting the Junta), setting the stage for conflict over the future space of the academy.
The eviction is not just about losing physical space; it signifies the deterioration of support for cultural institutions in Lisbon. This scenario is particularly poignant as the Academia de Amadores de Música has received accolades including the Medalha de Mérito Cultural from the Portuguese government. The institution’s rich history instills concern among supporters and alumni, who fear for the future of a place where culture is nurtured and celebrated.
Looking forward, different avenues have been explored to avert the eviction. Barata and his team have utilized multiple channels to rally support—from local councils to higher education authorities. Yet, each appeal seems to yield little progress. The sense of urgency cannot be understated as the academy prepares to commemorate its 141 years of existence on March 18, albeit with somber feelings of mourning for its future home.
For many, the impact of possibly shutting down such significant cultural landmarks is dire. Supporters of the academy claim it is not just about facilities; it's about the vibrant community, the music lessons, the events, and performances—elements woven deeply within Lisbon's cultural identity. Without solutions to secure their future, the fears of many may become reality, and Lisbon may witness the loss of another historic cultural institution.
Will the academy find refuge before time runs out? Or will legislators finally heed the call of cultural advocates and initiate plans to preserve such invaluable institutions? For now, their fate hangs precariously, echoing the urgent words of Barata: "Estamos a menos de duzentos dias de ter de sair.” Only time will tell if the combined efforts of passionate advocates, community leaders, and government officials can rescue this cherished academy from impending loss.