JOAN RIBÓ I CANUT


The International Wind Band Contest has been a classic part of the cultural and social life of Valencia cityfor many years. It is also a reference point in the city's intense and highly-varied musical movement, awell-known and renowned identifier in our region, one which belongs to the wind bands which form part of the DNA of the Valencian people, a people who are proud to be a global power both in terms of the fame of our bands as well as our individual performers and composers.

To speak of wind band music in this region is to speak of one of the ever-present attractions in the cultural and social landscape of Valencia.It is an essential ingredient and unifying element in our region which is maintained by the dozens of music associations which train and educate our young people from a very early age to appreciate music and, even more importantly, to play and share it with others in harmony. There is no Valencian fiesta, celebration, parade or procession without wind band music.

The city of Valencia is delighted to once again host a contest which was first held as far back as 1886 and which has grown and developed, adapting to the times, broadening its horizons and becoming international. With each new edition the city becomes a capital for the wind bands of the Region and a welcoming host to bands from elsewhere in Spain and the world, happy to act as a stage for the best wind band music.

The International Wind Band Contest "City of Valencia", in its 132nd edition, is once again part of the Great July Fair, in this frenetic month which brings togetherpartying, rejoicing in the arrival of summer, and the intensification of outdoor life, seen in a wide variety of cultural and artistic displays. This year the number of pre-contest concerts has increased to six, to be held on 16, 17 and 18 July, as an aperitif to the evening events which start on 19 July and conclude on 22 July with the performances of the Honorary Division.

It is a real pleasure to greet the arrival of a contest which is an attractive and internationally-prestigious showcase both for the competing bands and those invited to take part who all prepare meticulously for their big date in the city of Valencia.

Joan Ribó i Canut
Mayor of València