The Fête de la Musique, considered as the most recognized French event and the biggest simultaneous concerts in the Philippines, is a popular and free event that welcomes every musician of any background to contribute their passion for music, art, and culture by promoting diversity in musical practices.
The influence of this event has reached a huge following, thanks to the different musical expressions and to its location in the streets, squares, public gardens: it is an event that promotes camaraderie, collaboration and shared experiences.
In the Philippines, it is important to remember, however, that music is present not only in these said concerts but in everyday life itself. Music is in the hustle and bustle of the city – from pedestrian chatter to cars driving past and birds chirping in the distance. It is present not only in the sounds we hear but also in the sights and memories that accompany it.
One of Fête’s defining and original features is the simultaneous concerts across different stages that showcase different musical genres. From pop to hip-hop, reggae to classical, electronic to jazz, the magic of Fête de la Musique transcends across all musical tastes.
In recent years, Alliance Française de Manille and the Embassy of France to the Philippines have been truly fortunate to have partnered with the foremost institutions in giving life to the Fête de la Musique. Together with B-Side Productions and various government units such as the Department of Tourism, Tourism Promotions Board, National Commission for Culture and the Arts, and Intramuros Administration, as well as sponsors from the private sector mainly, A. Venue Mall, the Ayala Malls, Novotel Manila Araneta Center, among others, the Fête team have successfully put together concerts of various genres, venues, and artists in Makati, and Intramuros, Manila enjoyed by a crowd as diverse as Fête’s performers
This year’s edition is highly significant to us as we are celebrating the 70th year anniversary of the establishment of the diplomatic relations between the Philippines and France. Given Fête’s prominence in the Manila event scene, it is certain that it will be one of the highlights of the celebration.
Last 2016, Fête in Manila received an enormous reception in its three main stages (June 18 for the A. Venue and Greenbelt Stage, and June 23 for the Intramuros Stage) and 22 pocket venues which featured 1092 musicians and gathered over 22,000 enthusiasts!
This year, Fête de la Musique 2017, now in its 23rd Edition, will continue its tradition of producing several main stages across the city playing a variety of music, while around 2 dozen pocket stages will each host-specific musical genres. On the last half of June, festival-goers will be treated to the best of Philippine music since OPM legends, sought after bands and established musicians as well as up and coming artists will be part of this year’s lineup.
