World Music Day traditionally marks the first day of summer, which is also the longest day of the year. It’s a very special occasion. On 21 June, everyone can make their own music or attend free concerts.
Did you known that in France, more than 18,000 free concerts featuring music of every genre are held on this day each year? And the festivities are not confined to France, where this popular summer solstice festival was first established as La Fête de la Musique in 1982, before spreading to other countries as ‘World Music Day’. Since 1997, there has even been an official European Music Day. In English, the festival often uses the slogan ‘Make music!’ The French version of this slogan allows for a bit of word play on the festival’s name: Faites de la musique !
This day of sharing and freedom has won over large towns and cities, with more than 340 urban areas coming together to celebrate music across the world, including New York, Mexico City and Berlin. It is important to give people a chance to forget about social tension and everyday concerns. But the festival also aims to bring people from all backgrounds and sections of society together: music is a way of creating bonds between people. Free, open-air concerts, events in temporary marquees, street performances: there are numerous possibilities. Others prefer stages installed in public squares or impromptu concerts in railway station concourses. Many bars and restaurants also invite musicians in for the evening. Professionals and amateurs are all welcome, and can take advantage of the day to make themselves known. If you play an instrument or enjoy singing, it’s a great opportunity! Don’t forget to find out about any safety precautions that may apply and try not to be too much of a nuisance to those nearby. You can contact your local town hall for information on these issues. So, join in on 21 June!
French classes at the Centre International d'Antibes
