Music

Bilbao basque FEST is an essential event for music lovers. Genres such as blues, jazz, rock, pop and traditional Basque music play a leading role in its lineup, which this year also focusses on the important role of female voices, such as those of the stars of the folk cycle hosted by Azkuna Zentroa. There will be performances by groups like Kuttune, Sarrabete and Amaterra, all led by women.

The great festival of Basque culture will also play host to premieres such as the first solo work by former Nøgen member, Eider Sáez which will captivate the audience at Kiosko Arenal with its electrifying pop-rock melodies in Basque and Spanish.

In this edition, the festival also includes an original event at the Reproductions Museum: “Huesos” (Bones), a project by Manu Gaigne and Puy Barral which combines poetry and music.

After the enormous success of its premiere last year, the festival once again includes “Tavern Live Music” in venues all around the city: Azkena, Rocket, etc, This series of concerts will involve live performances by groups such as Norman Bates and Triple Zero, as well as soloists like Iñigo Puertas.

Music will also reach other parts of the city through the lively parades in Licensed Poza, Villarías, Ledesma… and the pilgrimages to the Plaza del Gas, Arenal Pier and Artxanda, where the public can also learn Basque dances.

As happens every year, the loudest rock chords can be heard on the stage of Kafe Antzokia, where the best local bands will perform each night as part of Bilbao basque FEST Rock City.

For those who prefer electronic music, Marzana Pier and the adjoining street will host DJ sessions. There will be two sessions each afternoon, one to accompany your pre-lunch aperitif and another for those post-lunch drinks.