As far as big-name classical composers go, you definitely can’t top Europe. Mozart, Bach, Beethoven, Vivaldi: a seemingly endless reel of history’s most famous musicians all originate from culturally rich European countries. The opportunities for pilgrimages to these musical greats are innumerable, so to here are some ideas to help you choose, or give you some inspiration…
Baroque
If Baroque is your p
referred era of classical music, then a tour of Italy is a must! You can’t do much better than a visit to the enchanting city of Venice, whose romantically decaying buildings are uniquely constructed on a picturesque lagoon in the north east of Italy. Venice was the home of the so-called ‘Red Priest’, a figure we know better today as the great Antonio Vivaldi, composer of the Four Seasons and a vast array of other well-known chamber music. His music, whether a lively flute concerto or a darker movement from the Four Seasons, certainly provides a fitting soundtrack to a wander around this mysterious, historic city, which has changed very little since Vivaldi himself walked its intriguing streets and navigated its watery passages.
Opera
Opera lovers are well provided for by two other northern Italian cities. At Verona, you can enjoy sumptuous Italian ope
ra by the likes of Puccini and Verdi amidst the stunning setting of the city’s ancient Roman amphitheater for a totally unique operatic experience. At the beginning of the opera you’ll be handed little candles to light, transforming the vast, atmospheric arena into a twinkling wonderland. Don’t forget to bring a cushion though – your seating will be the original stone steps upon which countless Romans gathered to watch gladiatorial battles and animal fights! If you’d rather see an opera in more plush surroundings, head over to Milan and visit the world-famous La Scala opera house. Even if you don’t see an opera there, it’s still worth a visit for its fascinating museum and homage to the illustrious figures from its history, including the great Giuseppe Verdi. If you’re keen to visit all of these cities there are sure to be tours of Italy that include them, and there may even be some that are specifically opera focused!
Austria
Of course, Italy is by no means the only country to have given us supreme musical talent. Few can rival the heights of genius attained by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, who was born in the Austrian city of Salzburg in 1756 and died in Vienna in 1791. You can see both these cities on a trip to Austria, during which you will find that the spirit of Mozart endures, from special Mozart chocolate to memorable concerts of his incredible repertoire. In fact, Vienna – a beautiful city which hugs the banks of the River Danube – is something of a classical music hotspot, attracting numerous celebrated composers over the centuries and, in many cases, becoming their final resting place. Haydn, Beethoven, Schubert, Brahms, Strauss and Mahler are among the other eminent names associated with the city, which is famous for its opulent New Year’s concert.
Prague
Prague in the Czech Republic has a similarly impressive musical background, which composers from Mozart to Dvorak numbered among those whose careers it has fostered. An essential stop on a musical European tour, Prague’s beautiful cobbled streets and dreamlike architecture make it is as close to a fairy-tale city as you’re likely to find – and a concert in the illustrious surroundings of the Smetana Concert Hall is the perfect way to while away a romantic evening. A great time to go is May, when Prague Spring, a classical music festival, gets under way.
But wherever your tour of Europe takes you – whether you head to Paris to dabble in Debussy, or Vienna to sample some Strauss – you’re never far from Europe’s incredible musical heritage. Pick any European tour and you’re almost guaranteed some memorable musical moments should you so wish. Now all you have to do is decide on your favourite composer… or perhaps your top five!
Written by Kat Kraetzer, a passionate travel blogger.
Image of Venice by Michael Jones 51
Image of Verona Opera by rytc
Image of Vienna by Krister462
