France's Fête de la Musique
June 21st Marks Free Open Air Music Festival Throughout France
Jun 24, 2009
What was once a brilliant idea to create a music festival on France's urban streets has now spread to other continents. Travelers in countries throughout Europe, Asia, South America, Africa, and even recently, the United States will be able to find similar festivals in big cities during the summer solstice. June 21st, 2009 marks the 28th annual Fête de la Musique in the original host country, France.
La Fête de la Musique in France
Originally dubbed, "Faites la Musique" (make music), France's music festival eventually became the homonym, "Fête de la Musique." The festival takes place every year on June 21st and is one of the few days when the French government takes away any noise restrictions within the city limits. Musical productions of over an estimated 250 different acts can be found littering the streets until late into the night.
Musical Acts and Locations at La Fête de la Musique
A wide variety of musical acts are most likely to be found in the heart of cities such as Paris, Lyon, Marseille, Nice, and Bordeaux, but are definitely not limited to these. Those wishing to see what type of scheduled music is playing and where can research ahead of time.
The festival is open to both professionals and amateurs. Visitors can be sure to find classical, rock, rap, pop, indie, traditional, country, and blends of these. Performances range from formal celebrities on stage with microphones and equipment to casual curbside sessions with one or two instruments.
Sometimes it's better to attack the festival spontaneously, matching the atmosphere of the day. Walking the streets and stumbling upon musical performances ranging from traditional to rap can be as satisfying to the senses as a rollercoaster ride through a jukebox.
Message and Purpose of La Fête de la Musique
The objective is not a profit, as musicians are not paid for their performances. The point of la Fête de la Musique is to share music of all genres with everyone without a price or hidden agenda. Its mission lies in providing space and time to let musicians mix and play in places where they normally wouldn't have the chance and in front of audiences they normally wouldn't have.
While musicians have the opportunity to play in places like castles, museum entrances, hospitals, and prisons in front of a diverse crowd, musical tastes of the audience are easily broadened. It's a celebration of musical exchange and the conditions create a jubilant atmosphere that is well organized and positive.
For music lovers around the world, the festival should not be missed. A steadfast respect for music of all kinds and musicians of all ages is present. In rekindling the flavor of traditional music, introducing new blends, and maintaining the contemporary, the festival's goal is to bring everyone together for a free, non-political spectacle of pure music appreciation.
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