An Abyss of Authenticity: Pedro Mafama in a Masterclass at ETIC
Pedro Mafama visited ETIC for a masterclass with the Music Production students. Moderated by journalist and professor Ricardo Farinha, the session proved unmissable, offering students the opportunity to learn from and engage directly with one of the leading names in contemporary portuguese music.
The session began with a listening of a track scheduled for release in the near future. From that starting point, the conversation moved into a detailed analysis of the different stages involved in building the song. Throughout the masterclass, the artist discussed the various takes recorded before reaching the final version, the production decisions behind it, and the balance between lyrics and beat. In a moment that brought a third voice into the discussion — Nelson Monteiro, Pedro Mafama’s manager — the students also gained insight into how the artist protects and preserves the authenticity of his work.
The conversation then expanded into the visual realm, with Pedro Mafama unveiling the music video and explaining the conceptual idea guiding the project. For the students, it was an opportunity to understand how sound and image interact and complement one another in shaping a strong artistic identity.
The musician also revisited his artistic journey, highlighting the importance of experimentation and constant reinvention. He reflected on the albums “Estava No Abismo Mas Dei Um Passo Em Frente” and “Por Este Rio Abaixo”, framing them as distinct moments in his creative evolution. Looking ahead, he revealed that his next album will follow a different path from the previous two, reinforcing his desire to explore new creative directions.
Amid reflections on authenticity, persistence, and strategies for building a career in the music industry, the masterclass concluded with a spontaneous remark from a student who, despite not being previously familiar with the artist’s work, admitted having enjoyed the session so much that he plans to listen carefully to Pedro Mafama’s entire catalogue.
By the end, it was clear that learning is also shaped by moments of shared experience and open dialogue.
