Music
Shut your eyes and the music of a destination can often transport you there. In fact for some destinations, the music is the star attraction.Few cities are more linked with a musical genre than Salzburg, for example, where Mozart mania predominates. Birthplace of the composer, Salzburg is this year celebrating the 250th anniversary of his birth and classical concerts and special events are everywhere. There are other options too – from folk to hard rock.
Music is everywhere you go in Ireland – north or south – from high opera to busking with traditional Irish music aplenty. Whether it’s a pub singalong with bódhran, violin and piano or an organised festival, wherever you arrive in Ireland, whether Dublin or Shannon, you’ll have the chance to jig.
In France, Rennes is renowned for two major modern music festivals, while summer in Chambery is celebrated by folk festivals, sound and light shows, baroque music and village fetes.
Classical Spanish guitar playing is an absolute delight to watch, and when accompanied by the dramatic stamping of a flamenco dancer it makes for a stunning assault on the senses.
Of course, the UK has spawned its share of musical legends and regional centres such as Birmingham, Liverpool, Manchester and London continue to have a thriving music scene, with many excellent venues for both big name acts and up-and-coming stars of tomorrow. Liverpool has produced more chart toppers than any other UK city; Manchester is home to the world famous Halle Orchestra; and in Leeds the International Concert Season promotes 200 music events each year.