Why do we like music festivals? It can’t be for the toilet facilities, the mud, or the overpriced food! It’s a gathering of like-minded people that gives one a feeling of comradery and of course, it’s about terrific music and the chance to see our favorite acts. Every genre has its share of festivals. Here are a few highlights on the annual calendar.
Glyndebourne Festival Opera, England
This is a rather more sedate affair than your average rock fest. It’s the jewel in the crown for opera lovers in the UK and takes place in a country estate in Sussex. The festival began in 1934. Other composers are featured but the main program consists of Mozart’s music. The chief orchestra is the world renowned London Philharmonic.
Fuji Rock Festival, Japan
This event is miles away from Mount Fuji but it was first held on the foot slopes of the majestic mountain and the organizers didn’t change the name when it moved its location in 1999 to Naeba ski resort. It is still a festival set in wonderful scenery, surrounded by forests and mountains. Japanese and top international artists perform here. The July 2009 festival featured Patti Smith, Fall Out Boy, Basement Jaxx, and Oasis.
Newport Jazz Festival, USA
The Newport, Rhode Island event was established in 1954 and it’s a little piece of heaven for jazz fans. All the greats have performed here, including Miles Davis, Ella Fitzgerald, Count Basie, Duke Ellington, and John Coltrane. Several historic live albums have been recorded here over the years.
Newport Folk Festival, USA
The other Newport festival is held in great affection by fans, some of whom have been attending since its inception in 1959. Co-founded by veteran singer, Pete Seeger, the festival has launched many a career including that of Joan Baez and Bob Dylan. Several live records have also been made here. The event got controversial headlines in 1965 when Dylan shocked the audience with his amplified set. Some of the folk purists were not ready for electric music. The festival survived, as did Dylan, and went from strength to strength.
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CMA Music Festival, USA
Nashville, the very heart of country music, has hosted this festival since 1972. There are over 100 hours of concerts and half the proceeds are given to charity. It’s a chance for fans to get up close and personal with their idols, as the festival organizes autograph sessions and meet and greet sessions. Famous stars of the genre frequent the event and past performers include Dolly Parton and Garth Brooks. CMA has also looked to a more mainstream audience by inviting Paul McCartney on to the bill.
Glastonbury, England
Probably the most famous festival in the world for rock fans, it has been running on a semi regular basis since 1970, when dairy farmer, Michael Eavis opened his fields up to the best rock performers of the day. It started small but grew and grew and became a symbol of the Flower Power era. Today, there are New Age encampments, rap artists, and techno side by side with comedy and cabaret performances in addition to the most lauded acts in rock and indie. Part of the proceeds goes to Greenpeace, Water Aid, and Oxfam. The 2009 headliners were a reunited Blur, Bruce Springsteen, and Neil Young. In all the noise and fanfare, Mr. Eavis’ cows still have to be milked!
True music lovers will always endure any discomfort from the weather or anything else. Nothing can beat live music. So, turn off that perfectly produced CD and book tickets for next summer!
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