The Palace of Catalan Music is a Feast for Both the Eyes and the Ears

The Palace of Catalan Music
The Palace of Catalan Music / Photo By kkmarais via Flickr

In the heart of Barcelona, Spain you’ll find the Palace of Catalan Music, which is just as much an historical institution as it is a center for the arts. Featuring world-renown art in both performance arts and in fine arts, this is certainly a stop worth making on your trip to Barcelona. Whether you’re seeing a performance, taking a tour, or just walking by you won’t be disappointed that you visited that Palace.

Built between 1905 and 1908, the Palace of Catalan Music is itself a masterful work of art. Part of the turn-of-the-century Catalan Art Nouveau movement, also known as modernisme, it is the only art venue of this style to be listed as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. It stands today as a symbol of the history and heritage for the people of Catalonia. The building’s beautiful architecture is centered around a metal structure covered in glass, flooding it with natural light and making it a wonderful place for large installations.

The Palace has three separate venues. Two are large concert auditoriums, and the third is an intimate concert room for small shows. It also has two meeting places, one is used for intermissions, while the other is an event venue. Each space has a unique art piece all its own, and evoke strong senses of place.

This unique center for the arts is the culmination of local, national and international talent performing in an historic setting. The Palace also has a renowned music education program and guided tours of their gorgeous building. The house Chamber Choir is a professional international benchmark. These 22 voices are devoted to rediscovering the Catalan musical heritage while embracing international choral music and developing new works. This traveling group has worked with the most prestigious international orchestras, opera companies, and conductors.

Shows at the Palace of Catalan Music are diverse and entertaining. Here are some listings for the 2014 holiday season.

Soweto Gospel Choir – Gospel Greats
This South African gospel choir will be performing a tribute concert to Nelson Mandela.

Waltzes and Dance Festival – Orquestra Sinfonica del Valles
This is a festival of Waltzes, Dance and gospel.

Christmas Gospel Rhythm – Alabama Gospel Choir
This show is a journey through the history of gospel from the 19th century to modern Christmas tunes that invite the crowd to join in.

Christmas With Swing – Coros de las Escuelas del Conservatario del Liceu
This is an instrumental and vocal jazz show by students of all ages.

Great New Year’s Concert – Strauss Festival Orchestra and Ballet
This is one of Europe’s most famous tours celebrating the musical traditions of 19th century Vienna.

When you visit the Palace of Catalan Music you’ll be treated to several unique, and famous experiences. The Palace itself is a symbol of an artistic movement set in that particular area while simultaneously celebrating its cultural heritage. The in-house acts are just as noteworthy as the guest ensembles they host from around the world. The Palace of Catalan Music is worth a trip when you’re visiting Barcelona. If you’re looking for a great accommodation while in town, check out the great bizFlats apartments scattered about this beautiful city.