Colombia is a country known for the variety of festivals it hosts. Throughout the year, in each of its regions, these events of cultural tradition are celebrated. The Cartagena Music Festival is one of the most recognized, as classical music lovers gather to enjoy it. For 6 days, the Walled City becomes the main stage of this great festival.
What is the Cartagena Music Festival?
The Cartagena Music Festival is the most important classical music festival in the country. It has become the bridge between European and American culture and their relationship with music. That's why, during the event, you can also witness expressions of traditional Colombian music.
The festival takes place during January in the beautiful city of Cartagena de Indias, and every year it has a different theme. This space allows the gathering of musicians, experts, and the general public; all of them music enthusiasts and connoisseurs.
During the 6 days of the event, approximately 25,000 spectators and 250 musicians attend. Additionally, other complementary activities are carried out such as lectures, lutherie workshops, exhibitions, and master classes.
How did the Cartagena Music Festival originate?
The Salvi Colombia Foundation, led by music experts Julia and Víctor Salvi, is the entity behind the Cartagena Music Festival. They were inspired by the Spoleto Festival in Italy, founded by the Italo-American composer Gian Carlo Menotti. But what motivated them the most to create this event was their desire to transform the country and society through music.
The first edition of the Cartagena Music Festival took place in 2007, aiming to strengthen the country's musical development. Since then, major figures in music, both national and international, have attended. That's why, in Cartagena de Indias, an important space of integration between classical music and popular music is opened.
Plan and enjoy the Cartagena Music Festival 2021
This time, the Cartagena Music Festival will take place from June 30th to July 5th, 2021. The objective of this edition is to highlight the transition from classicism to early Romanticism in Vienna. Some symphonies by the renowned Franz Schubert will be presented, along with other important works of classical music.
The theme of this edition will be the beautiful and the sublime, two aesthetic concepts typical of art and which represent the festival very well. The image of the event will be the work called “La Ascensión de Remedios, la bella”, created by the prestigious artist from Barranquilla, Álvaro Barrios.
The festival will feature more than 20 concerts. Some of them are: Schubert and the classical style, Intimate singing with two voices, Romantic Lied, Two sublime quartets, A journey without direction, Classics from two worlds, Not only Schubert, Young talents, Sounds and colors of the Caribbean, Opera in the square; among others.
Discover: News, colors, and motifs of a trip to Cartagena de Indias
Additional festival information
Musical Conversations
Conversations with Giovanni Bietti, Encounter with Ian Bostridge, Sounds of South America (Latin American Series, Research Laboratories, Music Workshops, Multimedia Activities, Music Expo).
Educational Programs
Masterclasses, Young talents, Cartagena Symphony Orchestra, Volunteer Program, Production Fellows, Luthierie, Workshops, and Clinics.
Plans and Accommodation
You will have the possibility to purchase complete plans offered by the Cartagena Music Festival, which will give you access to the concerts you wish to attend. Additionally, you can stay at the two hotels recommended by the festival itself: Hotel Sofitel Legend Santa Clara and Hotel Charleston Santa Teresa.
Discover what else you can do in Cartagena de Indias
During these days, you can enjoy the beautiful Walled City, the historic center of Cartagena de Indias and a World Heritage Site. You can visit iconic places such as the Museum of Modern Art, the Plaza de los Coches, the Palace of the Inquisition, the Zenú Gold Museum, and the church of San Pedro Claver. Thus, you will get to know one of the most important cities in Colombia, renowned for its colonial streets, ancient carriages, and captivating stories.
Don't miss the chance to explore this beautiful city and its variety of plans, and make the Cartagena Music Festival the perfect excuse to enjoy this destination. Discover its landscapes through activities such as biking, dancing in its clubs, diving or snorkeling in the Rosario Islands, ecotourism; among others.
Additionally, you can't leave this city without tasting its cuisine. In Cartagena de Indias, there is a wide variety of dishes for all tastes. You can try typical dishes such as fish stew and coconut rice. The best part is that you will be amazed by the facades of the restaurants, as they maintain their colonial aesthetics, but inside you can find something very modern.
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Visit Cartagena de Indias and get ready to live a unique experience through the Cartagena Music Festival.
