Launched ten years ago, Zenélő Budapest (Musical Budapest) has become a beloved summer tradition, welcoming locals and visitors alike. What makes it unique is the curated nature of its performances. Each venue's program is carefully selected to complement its architectural style and historical significance. The majestic Buda Castle District, the modern Széllkapu Park at Millenáris, the elegant Hall of Columns at the Kunsthalle, the bustling home of the Parliament, Kossuth tér, and the charming Várkert Bazár at the foot of the castle will all come alive with music specially chosen to resonate within their walls.
The Gloriette within the Várkert Bazár's Renaissance garden and the Buda Castle's Savoy terrace will transport you back in time with a performance by brass players in traditional hussar costumes, performing Renaissance and Baroque music. Immerse yourself in the sounds of classical music within the Buda Castle. String and wind ensembles will fill both the Csikós Courtyard and the Karakas Pasha Tower with a varied repertoire. Additionally, enjoy a unique flute performance by the Campanelli Handbell Ensemble, or a Hungarian Romantic program presented by opera singer András Káldi Kiss and the Con Fuoco Quartet. See the schedule here.
Fridays at the Kunsthalle's Hall of Columns offer a contemporary twist on classical music. The Classics in Modern Covers series features a saxophone quartet. Saturdays, on the other hand, delve into diverse musical styles, from traditional African music and virtuoso horn quartets to captivating jazz covers. On Sunday mornings, the Capriccio String Quartet will evoke the serenity of the early 20th century with works by Mozart, Schubert, Tchaikovsky, and even a touch of Argentine tango. See the schedule here.
If you'd go more local, head to the 12th district (a lush residential area in the Buda Hills), and enjoy the musical buzz on the square at Hegyvidéki Cultural Salon. Friday evenings showcase a range of styles, from Zoltán Lantos' improvisational violin performances to the Götz Saxophone Quartet's rendition of Blue Rondo. Immerse yourself in Latin and South American music with Mexican singer Manuel Betancourt and pianist Sebastian Ramirez. Saturdays at the Hegyvidéki Cultural Salon cater to children and families. Since 2019, Nándor Götz has designed giant community instruments for the interactive program Zenélj velünk! (Make Music with Us!). Afterwards, the Campanelli Handbell Ensemble presents a storytelling concert. See the schedule here.
This year, the Tér-Zene concert series returns to Kossuth tér as a guest of Zenélő Budapest. The program features renowned artists like baritone singer Krisztián Szenthelyi, accordionist Mihály Demeniv, and Liszt Prize-winning cellist Judit Faludi. The closing event for the Zenélő Budapest anniversary season takes place at the Széllkapu in Millenáris on August 10th. This full-day program caters to all ages, offering everything from new music from the Far East to captivating mood concerts. The closing act will feature the voice-guitar duo of Micheller Myrtill and Tibor Pintér joining forces with the Götz Saxophone Quartet for a night of classic jazz. See the schedule here.
More details on the Hungarian website.
(Cover photo: Zenélő Budapest)
