About Cistermúsica
A classic for all
FROM IBERIA TO THE NEW TIMES
In 2021 Cistermúsica will continue to explore the symbiosis between the music and the unique monumental surroundings of the Alcobaça Monastery, as well as to consolidate the projection of the Festival in the Iberian space, not only maintaining a programme starring some of the most important national artists and groups, but also through the rescheduling of the concerts of Spanish groups planned for the 2020 edition which, due to the pandemic context, were not possible.
The thematic component of the programme will continue to evoke the 500th anniversary of the Circum-navigation, but also intends to mark the most relevant events of the year, such as the 100th anniversary of Astor Piazzolla, the 100th anniversary of Camille Saint-Saëns' death, the 50th anniversary of Stravinsky's death, the 500th anniversary of Josquin Des Prez's death, the 100th anniversary of Ariel Ramirez's birth and also the 200th anniversary of Bottesini's birth.
Besides the main programme focusing on opera, symphonic, choral and chamber music, as well as recitals, the Festival will continue to reinforce the programme strand that combines classical music with other artistic languages, such as dance, in addition to promoting concerts of other musical genres, performance experiences and other complementary activities.
Around forty shows are planned in a timeframe between June and August.
André Cunha Leal e Rui Morais
Artistic Direction
The history of the festival
Under the motto "A classic for all", for almost three decades, Cistermúsica has presented a reference programme, hosting the most renowned artists and classical music groups in some of the most emblematic places of our historical heritage.
Cistermúsica aims to be, besides the Alcobaça Music Festival, the promoter of a national programming network, presenting concerts and other unforgettable artistic experiences throughout the year, thus contributing to the cultural and touristic development of the country.
Having as its privileged stage the Monastery of Alcobaça, a UNESCO heritage site and a masterpiece of Cistercian Gothic art, Cistermúsica has been a pioneer in promoting heritage and cultural synergies, with emphasis on the "Cistercian Route" that takes culture to heritage from north to south of the country.
Cistermúsica is also alive for children, young people and families, who will find in the "Junior and Families” section a diversified offer, enhancing the formation of new audiences, making them aware of the study, enjoyment and appreciation of the arts. The "Other Worlds" program, which privileges the crossing of music with other artistic expressions (dance, videomapping, photography, etc.), also presents cultural proposals aimed at a wider public, taking to the stage jazz, fado, and world music shows, among other musical genres.
Born in 1992, by initiative of the Municipality of Alcobaça, Cistermúsica has been organized since 2002 by the Band of Alcobaça, with institutional support from the same municipality and the Directorate-General of Arts.
Previous editions
Organization and Production
Organization
Production
