For one, because the corona virus is still reigning supreme in the world, its crown symbolising the absolute power over our plans and timetables. Therefore: please do check our web page and social media regularly for all the updates on possible changes in timetables and rules due to the situation as well as updates on rules, which apply for visitors and are – unfortunately for all of us – changing on a weekly basis.
Another reason for announcing an adventurous ride is our programme, co-created by one of the most prominent musical greats of our time and place, Simon Trpčeski. Inspired by the richness and complexity of Balkan music, especially the musical heritage of his native Macedonia, the music and the feel of our festival will reflect the distinctive patterns of the traditional Macedonian arts and crafts:
“Macedonia has a deep folk heritage; it forms an important part of our social life. We fall into this category of what’s been called “southern” mentalities within Europe – the Balkan mindset is not too different in some ways from the Italians, the Spanish, all those sunny countries, and the Hispanic world in the Americas. I grew up with this kind of music, and took part in these wonderful family gatherings that we had. It is imprinted onto my character and personality from that age, and it’s only built up more over the years.
Fundamentally, the impression the audience will get is of something very different. Not exotic as such – there’s nothing in our music that is actually new to their ears – but when they hear how we perform it, which is a very different approach to the concerts that one of the national folk ensembles might give, which often include choreography, they might find the music’s beauty itself challenging in a sense. I think they will first and foremost be captured by the intricate rhythms, and the variety of these rhythms that will put them a little off-balance.” (Presto Music, D. Smith, 2020)
A bold mosaic of musical patterns and rhythms, and a festival “a little off-balance“? As promised: an adventure. We look forward to it!
