Last night, the 19th edition of the Guitar Art Summer Fest opened at the Kanli Tower with a concert by one of the most important Spanish singers, Luz Casal. This year, the festival is being held under the slogan “Fiesta – the sound of the guitar, the smell of the sea, the rhythm of summer.”
In front of a packed auditorium, Casal demonstrated her magnificent talent with her carefully crafted repertoire, delighting the audience with hits such as Madrugadas, Historia de un Amor, Amado Mio…
Last night’s concert once again confirmed that music and emotions transcend language barriers.
“We have also prepared a repertoire that includes guitars and piano and songs that are classical, common to the climate of France and Spain – bolero. Although there might be a problem in communicating with the local audience due to the language that I do not know, music is universal and we will do everything to ensure that everyone has a good time. It is a special honor for me that the organizers have recognized me as a worthy artist who will open the festival and I am grateful for that,” said Kasal.
The Mayor of the Municipality of Herceg Novi recalled that for almost two decades, thanks to this festival, Herceg has been a host to world-famous names among cities and a place where legends of world music meet Montenegro for the first time.
“This guitar festival continuously contributes to the recognition of our city on the international cultural map, musical and cultural exchange, connects artists, educates young people and attracts numerous visitors, and thus gives additional value to our tourist and cultural identity. Therefore, this festival bears the title of the ambassador of culture of Herceg Novi,” said Katić.
He added that through such projects, Herceg Novi clearly sends the message that culture has a home here.
“An important mission of the Guitar Art Summer Fest is to make quality music accessible to everyone. The Municipality of Herceg Novi recognizes the effort and dedication of the organizers, artists and everyone who has contributed to the festival for years, which is why it is its patron and friend in continuity,” said Katić.
Before the concert itself, the large audience at the Kanli Tower was greeted by the Minister of Culture and Media, Dr. Tamara Vujović, who declared the 19th Guitar Festival open.
“Tonight on the walls of the Kanli Tower, preserving the memories of the centuries they lived, we listen to the pulse of a different heritage, the sound of the guitar. It is here, where the spirit of the Mediterranean is reflected in the Old Town, that our music fiesta begins, the 19th Gear Art Summer Fest, which will bring the passion of art music and the spirit of art to Herceg Novi until August 6. The Ministry of Culture and Media of Montenegro proudly supported GASF as an example of a manifestation of public-private partnership that fosters top artistic standards, a loyal audience, educates young guitarists and reaffirms the love for Herceg Novi and the love for the guitar. This festival is a combination of all the most beautiful summer emotions and that is why it has been going on for 19 years,” said Vujović.