The President of the Republic addressed a message of condolences to the Family of José Fontes Rocha.

Following is the text of the message addressed by President Aníbal Cavaco Silva:

“I received the news of the passing away of José Fontes Rocha with great regret. A charismatic figure of Portuguese folk music his disappearance is an enormous loss to our culture.

A composer of several musical tracts that became famous, José Fontes Rocha was particularly known for his exceptional performance on the Portuguese guitar, and throughout many decades played for Amália Rodrigues and other great Fado singers of the 20th century.

I address my sincere condolences to all his Family and friends.

Aníbal Cavaco Silva”