By Virtual TouristIf you love music and you love to travel, then you’ll want to check out this list of the five Must-See Musical Cities, as comprised by members of travel website VirtualTourist.
Classical: Vienna, Austria
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Not only is Vienna the capital of Austria, it’s also the world capital of classical music. Each night, more than 10,000 music fans enjoy live classical music, something that is simply unheard of in any other city in the world. And each year, Vienna’s concert schedule includes more than 15,000 events of various sizes. Music lovers can enjoy classical concerts in some of the world’s finest halls and historic locations or even street performers.
Fado: Lisbon, Portugal
While musical experts continue to disagree about the true origin of Fado, one thing they do agree on is how amazing it is to hear. Fado is considered Portugal’s national music treasure. There are two styles: Coimbra, often performed by groups of males, and Lisbon, sung by a solo performer accompanied by two guitarists. When visiting Lisbon, you’ll want to add time at a “casa de Fado” or Fado restaurant to your list. VirtualTourist members say the best and most authentic Fado restaurants can be found in the Alfama and Lapa districts. Some charge a small entrance fee, while others just require you to eat dinner. Either way, you’re sure to have a memorable evening.
Congolese Rumba: Brazzaville, Congo
If you like to dance while listening to music, then Brazzaville is for you. Here, music is cause for celebration, and, for some, perhaps a way to escape a world of poverty. Brazzaville, the capital of Congo, is known as the birthplace of the Congolese rumba, a genre that combines high-speed dance and music that is an important aspect of the culture. Today, you can hear this music at various events and festivals, as well as eateries.
Jazz: New Orleans, Louisiana
New Orleans is known for a lot of things: great food, Mardi Gras, Louis Armstrong and, of course, jazz. Many different kinds of jazz music — Dixieland, ragtime — originated in New Orleans and date back to the 19th century. Whether at a music hall, restaurant, town square or street corner, you’re bound to see live music everywhere. The heart of the city is full of jazz venues and VirtualTourist members say one of the best musical experiences you will have is at Preservation Hall. As a memento, stop by the Louisiana Music Factory and purchase some old vinyl jazz records.
Afro-Pop: Havana, Cuba
The Cuban capital is no doubt the epicenter of culture, including its diverse music scene with influences from Africa and Spain. The rhythms of Africa combined with Spanish guitars have created some of the most pulsating vibes you will hear. You’ll find music almost everywhere, including bars, cafes and street performers. VirtualTourist members say the best districts for live music are La Habana Vieja, Vedado and Miramar. You won’t be able to keep from dancing.
This article was printed in the July 10, 2016 – July 23, 2016 edition.
