Classical music in Valencia
The Valencia Opera House, designed by Santiago Calatrava, is, without doubt, the jewel in the crown of Valencia's arts and entertainment installations. From October 2006, the Palau will offer a full programme of events that will introduce Valencia to the international circuits of opera and performing arts. In addition to an array of other concerts and shows, including zarzuela. Its four auditoriums allow for all types of productions, from the classic to the contemporary. The main auditorium has a stage of 460 m2 and seats 1,800. Opera can be enjoyed in various languages as the seats are fitted with digital screens on which translations are displayed. The orchestra pit, of 166 m2 is the third biggest in Europe and by means of mobile platforms and sections it can be adapted to achieve maximum sound quality in accordance with the wishes of the conductor or production director.
Valencia is also home to the Music Palace, one of the most important music venues in Europe which receives more than 500,000 spectators each year. Placido Domingo himself, has compared the sound quality to a Stradivarius and its recent extension included the integration of the latest technology in its recording studios, rehearsal rooms and concert halls.
Another Venues
Valencia is a city with a profound musical tradition - the Colon Market, the Cathedral, the Lonja de la Seda, the Santa Catalina Church and La Nau, at the University of Valencia'a oldest building are just some of the city's venues that hold regular concerts. On a slightly different note, the Patriarca Church offers mass with Gregorian chants sung by 1213.