Occupancy of the second premises of the Conservatory of Music of Oporto - Palacete Pinto Leite.

On 13 March 1975, in the aftermath of the 25 April Revolution, and as a revolutionary act, a group of teachers from Porto Music Conservatory decided to occupy Pinto Leite House, at the time owned by Porto Municipality, their aim being to ensure better conditions for Porto Music Conservatory. “We played concerts nonstop, took turns to ensure that employees, teachers and students were always in the building to guarantee possession”. On that day, and symbolically, each person carried one object from the former premises to Pinto Leite House. “Throughout the entire process no municipal or national authority prevented this act. The powers that be viewed this occupation benignly.” (Isabel Rocha). Teresa Xavier recalls “the vibrant times when Pinto Leite House was occupied and the enthusiasm of my Mother [Mª Teresa Xavier] as she lived this new phase of freedom, which united teachers, students and employees fighting for better conditions for the conservatory premises. This change culminated in a memorable concert by candlelight for the electricity was turned off…” (Teresa Xavier).