Places
Bossa Nova
With our South American roots, it's no surprise that we're into all types of art here at Fazenda.
Music plays a big part of our culture back home, which is why this week we're talking about a fantastic style of music from Brazil, called Bossa Nova.
What is Bossa Nova?
Bossa Nova was first developed in the 1950s in Brazil, with it seeing a steady increase in popularity across the 50s and 60s. It's now one of the best-known Brazilian music styles in the world, with lots of modern genres taking influence from Bossa Nova sounds.
Literally translating to 'new trend' or 'new wave', Bossa Nova was a new style of music with a jazz and samba fusion that the world had never seen before. Syncopated rhythms mixed with smooth melodies in such a mesmerizing way that the style spread like wildfire across South America.
In the 1960s, Americans in the music industry began to notice this unique style of music. Realising the potential behind this genre, some artists started recording their own Bossa Nova songs for distribution across the US. The style was an almost instant hit, with some tracks even winning awards, such as "No More Blues" by João Gilberto, which won a Grammy Hall of Fame.
Instruments
The acoustic guitar is often the most predominant instrument in a Bossa Nova track. Even with very complex tracks, there is usually a guitar that provides the underlying rhythm, giving the song some structure. Drums and percussion instruments often play alongside this guitar, providing a whole host of interesting sounds. One of the more interesting instruments that is sometimes used is called a berimbau, which translates to 'musical bow', however this has become less common as time has passed.
Famous Classics
João Gilberto
Easily the biggest name in the Bossa Nova genre, João has sung or helped produce some of the most famous Bossa Nova tracks ever, with many considered to be works of art. Whether he's singing or has taken part in the production of the track, you know it's going to be good.
"The Girl from Ipanema"
Perhaps the most famous Bossa Nova song ever produced, it's thought that this was the song to truly kick the genre into the mainstream. It captured the essence of what Bossa Nova is about, mixing a laid-back, yet complex rhythm with intriguing vocals. You will have probably heard this and others when visiting us, Fazendeiros.
It's a name that is close to the heart of any Bossa Nova lover, and you've more than likely heard the song before.
"No More Blues"
This classic song performed by João Gilberto is often recognised as the first Bossa Nova track ever recorded. The Portuguese title is "Chega de Saudade", with 'saudade' meaning 'intense longing' and 'chega' meaning 'no more'.
The song has a strong emotional tone, and João has actually been known to perform the song live with his daughter.
"The Most Beautiful Thing"
A very gentle song that's considered beautiful by many, this track has been performed by many artists, but no-one delivered it with quite the subtlety and emotion of João Gilberto.
It's about a woman he finds so beautiful that he compares her to a flower, singing "You are more beautiful than the flower, I wish, the flower of spring, had all this aroma, of beauty that is love."
What do you think about Bossa Nova, Fazendeiros? Do you have any recommendations that you think are worth listening to? We'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments below or over on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.
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Please read all reservation terms stated on this page. By making a reservation with us you agree to our terms.
Reservation Terms
Online Reservations
Tables of up to 10 guests can be booked straight from our website (9 for Fazenda Birmingham and Edinburgh).For larger tables please contact [email protected], [email protected], [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] and our Reception Teams will be happy to help with your enquiry.
After making your reservation you'll receive a confirmation email. Should you not see this in your inbox after a few minutes please check your spam/junk folders. Do let us know if you have not received it and we'll be happy to help.
Dress Code
Our dress code is “elegant smart casual”. We do not require gentlemen to wear jacket and tie, however, we do not permit sportswear (gym wear) or beachwear.Children
We welcome children of all ages and believe we provide a great atmosphere for families to enjoy the restaurant experience. In the evening if guests wish to make a reservation with children under the age of 8 please do so for no later than 6pm (reservation durations vary depending on the number of guests so please note the reservation cannot go beyond 8pm). When making a reservation please count children in the total number of guests and let us know if you need a high chair or space for a pram/pushchair.
Please note: We politely request that children are always supervised and remain seated at the table to allow our teams and other guests to move around the restaurant safely and maintain physical distance.
Lastly, please note that children under 16 years of age need to be accompanied by an adult to dine.Cancellations & Deposits
We might require card details for some reservations. Your card will not be charged upon booking and your details will be securely processed by Stripe.If you no longer wish to keep your reservation, please let us know with as much notice as possible. Should you cancel your reservation or reduce the booking size less than 24 hours before your reservation date and time, a charge of £10.00 per guest will be processed.
Halal Selection
Halal reservations must be made at least 48 hours in advance.Allergens
The team at Fazenda take food safety very seriously and particularly so when it concerns allergens in food. On our website you can view allergen information on our Menu page. When visiting us you'll have access to it via our menus and also on our Market Table.Smoking
In line with legislation passed in 2007 Fazenda is a no-smoking restaurant. We do not allow e-cigarettes inside either.Pets & Guide Dogs
Animals are not accepted unless assisting guests with additional needs.Photography
Guests are allowed to take photos and videos for personal use inside the private dining room, gardens and on the terrace. At the moment we are not able to accommodate any photography requests for professional or educational purposes until further notice.FAQs
**What are your opening days and times? **
To view each restaurant opening times please click on Locations and choose your local Fazenda.Are you accepting walk-ins?
We are now accepting walk-ins once again.How can I make a reservation?
You can make a reservation via our website or by contacting your local Fazenda by clicking on Locations.Do I need to pay a deposit for my reservation?
We might require card details for some reservations. Your card will not be charged upon booking and your details will be securely processed by Stripe.If you no longer wish to keep your reservation, please let us know with as much notice as possible. Should you cancel your reservation or reduce the booking size less than 24 hours before your reservation date and time, a charge of £10.00 per guest will be processed.
Can I have drinks at the bar?
Absolutely, and reservations are not needed in advance for our bar areas.Are Christmas reservations available?
They are indeed, via our reservations page.