Do you like classical music? How about combining top-level international orchestras and soloists with subtropical weather, beautiful beaches and idyllic volcanic landscapes? From 7 January to 6 February 2017, the 33^rd International Music Festival of the Canary Islands will be held on the Canary archipelago, considered to be the most important music event of the Canary Islands.

The festival is aimed to enrich the islanders’ cultural life as well as to promote high-level cultural tourism. Due to the islands’ favourable weather, the festival is celebrated during the winter months, being the only European festival to be held in winter. During the months of January and February the average maximum temperature on the Canary Islands is 22ºC and the average minimum temperature is 14ºC, with sunny and clear skies. The perfect weather to go for a hike or take a walk along the beach.

The festival has become a relevant event on the winter agenda, counting with the presence of renowned soloists and artists. The 2017 festival is specially aimed to diffuse the Spanish and South American musical heritage. It will count with about 650 musicians from around the world, 89 concerts and 78 works to be performed. One of the highlights of this edition will be the historical union of the two greatest symphonic orchestras of the archipelago. The Philharmonic Orchestra of Gran Canaria and the Tenerife Symphony Orchestra will be performing together Schoenberg´s “Gurre – Lieder” on 13 and 14 January.

Symphony Orchestra of Tenerife (source: Gobierno de Canarias)

The main venues of the festival are definitely worth a visit, even without events taking place. The Auditorio Alfredo Kraus on Gran Canaria, named after the most international Canary Island tenor, is located at the end of Las Canteras Beach and is one of the most representative and outstanding constructions of the island. You shouldn’t miss to see some highlights of the auditorium: On the one hand, you can enjoy stunning views over the sea from its enormous panoramic window in the Auditorium Symphonic Hall. On the other hand, this hall houses a spectacular organ with 2.750 pipes, one of the largest of the Canary Islands.

Another main venue is the Auditorio de Tenerife Adán Martin. It is located in the Canarian capital Santa Cruz de Tenerife, next to the Atlantic Ocean. The majestic profile of the building has become an architectural symbol of the city and the archipelago. It is especially famous for its great arc, with its tip not being supported. Seen from the sea it is often compard to the Sydney Opera House. Inside, the auditorium also differs from traditional designs, as it attempts to surround the listener with sound sources.

Auditorio de Tenerife Adán Martín (source: Turespaña)

To know more about both venues, you could participate in one of the guided visits that are organized to introduce visitors into the history and show the architectural highlights the buildings have to offer.

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