The International Festival of Music and Dance, also known as the Nerja Caves Festival, is one of the most important cultural events in Costa del Sol. Held during summer in the delightful coastal town of Nerja in southern Spain in late July/early August annually, this festival features local renowned artists and international music bands. What makes this festival exclusive and unique is its venue – it is held inside the gorgeous Nerja Caves. The natural acoustics of the caves form a natural amphitheater providing an unparalleled environment for performances.
Ever since the caves opened to the public in 1960, Nerja Caves has been the location of this festival. The first edition was such a success, that the event has been held annually since then, in commemoration of the discovery of the caves. Over the years, well known acts such as Rostropovich, Sir Yehudi Menuhin, Maya Pilsetkaya, Montserrat Caballé, Dame Kiri Te Kanawa and José Carreras have performed in this spectacular location, making it one of the most sought after events in Costa del Sol.
This year marks the 55th Nerja Caves International Festival of Music and Dance; it will be held from 19th to 26th July 2014. The main hall in the cave has a capacity for 550 people, with tickets costing €30 to €40. This year’s edition will be the biggest to date, with eight separate performances. However, half of the events will take place outside the caverns on the Balcon de Europa, due to conservation concerns. All performances held outside are free of charge, and perfect for those who do not manage to get the much sought after tickets.
The first four performances will be held on the Balcón de Europa and will be free of charge.
Saturday July 19th 2014 – Local singer Nuria Fergó accompanied by the Málaga Symphony Orchestra.
Sunday July 20th 2014 – Baritone Iñaki Fresán with Juan Vicente Téllez on piano + singing. performances by the Coral Alminares de Nerja, Iván Villa, Carmen Vicente and Estela Vicente.
Monday July 21st 2014 - Lebanese violinist Ara Malikian and his orchestra as well as Fernando Hurtado and his dance company will perform.
Tuesday July 22nd 2014 – Concert by the Nerja Municipal Band.
The final four performances will be held in the Nerja Caves – tickets are €30 to €40.
Wednesday July 23rd 2014 – The classical sextet Cuerda Quirin performing pieces by Purcell, Tchaikovsky and Boquerini Concert.
Thursday July 24th 2014 - Concert by the Peruvian National Ballet.
Friday July 25th 2014 – Concert by flamenco singer Carmen Linares with a guest appearance of the dancer Belén Maya.
Saturday July 26th 2014 – Concert by Diana Navarro, accompanied by the Aljarafe Symphony Orchestra under the baton of Pedro Vázquez.