International Classical Music Awards Gala Concert

The ICMA Awards are the International Classical Music Awards, equivalent to the "Academy Awards" of the classical music world; this year will see their first-time presentation in Spain, thereby turning San Sebastián and, by extension, the Basque Country, into the focal point of classical music in Europe. All in conjunction with and on the occasion of San Sebastian, European Capital of Culture 2016, and framed within its "Conversations" initiative, created to establish alliances with the local cultural agents and to support initiatives related to the values of the Capital event.

Every year special awards go to musicians from all over the world with acknowledgements such as the Lifelong Achievement Award, going to Dame Felicity Lott; Artist of the Year for Christian Lindberg, Young Artist of the Year for Pablo Ferrández, and the "Discovery" Award, presented for the first time to musicians between the ages of 12 and 18 and going on this occasion to the flautist Nikolai Song. Another 15 awards also go to the best CD and DVD productions (Baroque, choir, symphony music, among others).

1st April, awards ceremony + Gala Concert. On Friday, April 1st, the ICMA jury, award-winners and numerous guests will gather for a restricted awards ceremony. This will be followed by a Gala Concert, open to the public. All winners of awards at this year's ICMA will participate in the concert together with the Basque National Orchestra and under the baton of Jun Märkl, its Chief Conductor. Thus, the concert will unite the different kinds of music falling under the heading of what we know as "classical", brought to us by some of its leading exponents. A unique opportunity. The Gala Concert will take place in the Kursaal Auditorium at 8 pm. Tickets are now on sale through the usual channels (€22 and €10).

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