The International Festival of Organs and Sacred Music (FIOMS) is set to transform Porto into the “City of Organs” from October 19 to December 1, 2024. With over 400 performers from around the globe participating in 38 immersive concerts, this festival promises to be a unique celebration of organ music and heritage.
Key Dates
- Event Duration: October 19 to December 1, 2024
- Number of Performers: Over 400 organists
- Total Concerts: 38 performances
- Locations: Various churches in Porto and Espinho
The festival, now in its fourth consecutive year, aims to highlight the rich cultural heritage of organ music. Artistic director Filipe Veríssimo expressed high expectations for this year’s event, emphasizing its potential to attract more tourism and economic benefits to the region.o
Porto is distinguished by its diverse array of organs, making it a unique destination for organ enthusiasts. Veríssimo noted that no other city in the world boasts such a concentration of different types of organs, which contributes to its status as a global hub for this art form.
This year, the festival expands its reach by including Espinho, where attendees can enjoy a concert at the Igreja Matriz. The immersive performances will allow audiences to not only listen to the music but also explore the historical spaces of the churches, enhancing their overall experience.
The festival will kick off with a special inaugural concert by renowned organist Leo Van Dosselaar at the Sé do Porto. During a preview, Van Dosselaar shared insights into the complexities of playing the organ and performed a brief excerpt from one of his pieces.
