Music transports us. A few simple notes can remind us of moments in time, memories we hold dear, and the people that we love. It gives us goosebumps, can put a smile on our face and can even make us cry. Music makes us feel everything! Think about listening to the Beatles for the first time or hearing those iconic two notes from the Jaws soundtrack. How about the nursery rhymes and folk songs our families would sing to us when we were young? To put it quite simply, music is magic! Celebrating the wonder of music is what World Music Day is all about.
World Music Day takes place on 21 June. The day began in Paris, France, in 1982 on the summer solstice as “Fête de la Musique’ with the aim of celebrating amateur musicians. Today it is celebrated in over 1,000 cities and 120 countries! People play music outside in neighbourhoods and public spaces. There are free concerts, sidewalk performances and much more covering a range of styles and skill levels! Whatever way you want to make or appreciate music, you’re encouraged to do it on this special day! To celebrate World Music Day this year, we have put together a list of the best cities in Europe that music lovers need to visit.
Here are 5 cities that music lovers must visit in Europe:
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Vienna, Austria
When people think of classical music, Vienna should come to mind! Vienna, the capital of Austria, is known as the “European Capital of Classical Music”. Great composers including Mozart, Beethoven, Brahms and Schubert have worked, created and performed in Vienna. The city’s grand imperial architecture adds to the incredible atmosphere of the classics performed here – it almost feels like the sound of violins and cellos should follow wherever you roam in Vienna! Visit and take in an opera at incredible venues like Musikverein, Wiener Konzerthaus and the Vienna State Opera.
Related: Take a look at more of Europe’s most spectacular theatres.
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London, England
London is home to a number of musical greats! The vibrant capital of the United Kingdom is where many artists come, hoping to make their big breaks. The legacies of musical legends like the Beatles, Jimi Hendrix, The Rolling Stones, David Bowie, Amy Winehouse and many more fill the streets. Travellers can visit iconic sites like Abbey Road, the Royal Albert Hall and the original Hard Rock Cafe. London’s musical tapestry is a diverse mix. From classical and opera to contemporary, rap and rock ‘n roll. One of the best ways to appreciate the many genres is to enjoy live music. Find exciting gigs happening in pubs and bars in areas like Camden, Covent Garden, Shoreditch and Brixton. London is also home to the famous West End where you can enjoy award-winning musicals and productions.
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Prague, Czech Republic
Prague is a must-visit for classical music lovers! Not only is this bohemian city beautiful to see, but it is also alive with a passion for music! Watch classic operas at the beautiful Prague State Opera and the National theatre which has a stunning setting next to the Vltava River. Mozart himself spent time in this city in the late 1700s. Prague hosted the premiere of two of his operas: Don Giovanni and La Clemenza di Tito. Today, there are a number of concert halls and live music venues dotted across the capital of the Czech Republic. Attend a show to appreciate the unique sights and sounds of Prague.
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Berlin, Germany
Berlin is a centre for artists, musicians and performers! David Bowie and Iggy Pop both lived here at different times in their lives and there are musical-themed guided tours visitors can enjoy across Germany’s capital. Back in the 70s, Berlin was the centre for a bustling punk scene! Today the city is home to a diverse mix of music styles. Visitors can enjoy classical opera at the historic Deutsche Opera House, the Berliner Philharmonie and the Berlin State Opera. Techno lovers are also in for a treat in Berlin – dance the night away at venues like Tresor and Berghain (which is notoriously difficult to get into!). Pubs and bars across the city host live music for revellers to enjoy throughout the year.
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Paris, France
While it may be known first as the city of lights and the ultimate destination for romantics, Paris is also an incredible vacation spot for music lovers! The beauty of the city extends from the romance of the boulevards into stunning gilded concert halls. The French capital is home to the iconic Palais Garnier and the Opera Bastille where guests can enjoy world-class operas and ballets. Venture into the city at night to enjoy cabaret at iconic joints such as the Moulin Rouge or tap your toes to the catchy sounds emanating from local jazz clubs!
Paris was the home of the first “Fête de la Musique” and continues to celebrate the art of making music throughout the daylong festival to this day!
These destinations sound like music to our ears! Whether you want to be swept up in the emotion of a classic opera or are keen to dance the night away to contemporary beats, Europe has a music destination that is perfect for you. Take an Expat Explore trip and experience all the musical wonders that Europe has to offer on your next vacation.