History of Music Festivals: Part 1

 Delphi stadium, host of Pythian Games

Although music festivals may seem like a modern day event, there are historical accounts of musical performances at the Pythian Games at Delphi, and may be one of the earliest festivals known. During the Middle Ages, similar events occurred where music was enjoyed.

There are a number of different types of music festivals, one type being the educative type, organized annually in local communities, regionally or nationally, for the benefit of amateur musicians of all ages and grades of achievement. While entrants perform prepared pieces in the presence of an audience which includes competitors, the essential feature of this type of festival is that each participant receives verbal and written feedback, there and then, from a highly qualified, professional adjudicator. They also usually receive a certificate, classified according to merit, and some may win trophies. The competitive element is often played down, however, as the important aspect is that participants can learn from one another. Such festivals aim to provide a friendly and supportive platform for musicians to share in the excitement of making music. For many they provide a bridge between lessons & examinations and performing confidently in public. As you can see, people have been enjoying music at many different festivals for many years.