Allan Filho: 

“Songs are tools of
peace and life” 

The well-known singer and songwriter talks about music
and its role in Spiritism

	Allan Filho (photo), linked to the Spiritist Movement in the city of Petrópolis, near Rio de Janeiro, is renowned for his work with music and Spiritism. You can find out more on http://palcomp3.com/allanfilho/. That is the main theme of the interview he gave us:  Allan, let us begin by asking you to talk a bit
more about your experience and activities in the Brazilian Spiritist Movement.

I began writing songs inspired by the Teachings in 1992, with the aim of helping my process of inner reform and help others. I also give talks and perform my songs to Spiritist audiences. 

Do you prefer to write songs or to perform them? 

The processes of writing and perform songs are intertwined. When I am writing a song, I am already thinking about how to perform it, and I sing as I write, which helps me with the following lines. But I must say that I prefer to write, really. I do my research on passages from the Gospel of Jesus, I study Spiritist books and take the ideas that emerge from that to fellow songwriters. I learn a great deal during the process of writing songs. 

Many people talk about Spiritist music. Is there such a thing, Spiritist music? 

I do not believe Spiritist music is a genre. First of all, I write with people of other religions. We seek common ideas and get together aiming to find a common language to our religious beliefs. You would need to classify it as Spiritst-Catholic-Evangelical music… I would also add that such definitions could have an inhibiting effect, something that we should not encourage. Moreover, how many songs are embraced by Spiritists even though they come from other sources. 

Is there a preferred rhythm in songs commonly used in Spiritist activities? 

Each Spiritist activity is different and will require different songs to help it achieve its goals. We can use all rhythms and styles. But those in charge need to be aware of the overall picture. A song should be judged by its beauty and utility to the purpose being pursued. We must also take into account the cultural aspects of the environment. We need to encourage high moral standards in our activities, but nothing must be imposed.  

What is music used for in Spiritist activities? 

Music adds sensibility to the Teachings and help people assimilate what they learn. Songs will help set up a better atmosphere when you pray. Ideas are also better memorised when sung. Music is also a valuable tool in mediumship meetings. And how many people go through the most difficult moments and find inner balance through music? There is still a lot to be learned on the potential of music, but we cannot deny how much we already benefit from this blessed tool. 

How do you deal with the prominence and, in a way, stardom, singers naturally achieve. That is particularly relevant in a religious group. 

We need regular courses and debates on the importance of the work of every volunteer in the Spiritist Movement. Singers need a special work to stay focused on the goals. Public speakers and lectures face similar challenges. We cannot hide away from the challenge, but no one can be given unfair advantages. 

What is the best alternative in Spiritist activities: music to hear or to sing along? Public performances or studio work to record a CD? 

Again, it depends on the activity. Singing along is in many cases extremely useful, especially if the aim is to put together the feelings and emotions of everyone. Gigs are very good to raise funds and also to boost the sales of CDs. In Spiritist Gatherings, background music works very well, especially if the songs are linked to the theme of the congress or meeting. 

You write songs especially for Spiritist meetings, study sessions or theatre plays. Tell us about that experience. 

It is gratifying. It is in such occasions that the results you aimed during the songwriting process become clear. When a song of mine is picked for one of those events, I feel that I am finally achieving the goal of going beyond pure entertainment. Songs are written to be more than that. They are tools of peace, of integration, of consolation, reflection, adoration, gratitude and love. They are tools of life. 

Can you talk about the writing process of one of your best-known songs? 

The song “Noite e Dia” (Night and Day) was commissioned to be part of the songtrack of a theatre play. The day before my deadline, it was still unfinished. It seemed to be finished, but I knew there was something lacking. I struggled to find what I wanted and had to hand it over like that. It was used like that in the play, but a few days later a Spirit wrote a message, which was read out for all the participants of the meeting where the play was being performed, and I finally found what was lacking in the song. The message was about the fear of some Spirits before being born again for another incarnation. They fear falling again, victims of the errors of previous lives. I finished the song and sang for them, inviting them to be brave. That is a song that is still sung in many meetings. 

Could you say a few words for those who want to work with music in the Spiritist Movement? 

There is a lot to be done, much to be learned. We are still in the dark, in the early phase. Our dedication should be measured by our efforts to be useful to others. Should our hearts be filled with love and our words help spread love. Should our songs hit, first of all, ourselves. They must be honest above all, in line with what we believe and fight for. Our work should not be dependent on our presence. Our songs should be played freely. They should belong to everyone and nobody at the same time!