2025 Santa Cecília Internacional Festival

The V International Santa Cecília Music Festival kicks off on February 1, 2025, at 4:00 PM, at the Romantic Museum of Porto, with a recital by Paul Mnatsakanov, a young talent of American-Russian origin. This festival, organized by the Curso de Música Silva Monteiro in partnership with the Museum of Porto and the City Hall of Porto, is a key event in promoting young pianists who have participated in the prestigious Santa Cecília International Piano Competition, showcasing exceptional artistic qualities.

In this edition, the festival will present a cycle of eight recitals, held every Saturday in February and March, at 4:00 PM, in the intimate and historic space of the Romantic Museum. The event highlights emerging pianists from around the world, offering the public a unique experience of high artistic quality with programs focused on the Romantic period repertoire.

The opening concert will feature Paul Mnatsakanov, known for his sensitive and narrative interpretation, considering music as an art form that creates a deep emotional connection with the audience. Awarded in prestigious international competitions such as the Kendall Taylor Beethoven Piano Competition and the Valsesia Musica International Competition, Paul has been building his career with performances at renowned venues such as Wigmore Hall, Royal Albert Hall, and at festivals across Europe, the Americas, and Asia.

The program that Paul will present in Porto includes Mozart’s Sonata in F Major, K. 280, C.P.E. Bach’s Rondo in D Minor, Wq. 59/4, Beethoven’s Bagatelle No. 4, Op. 126, and Schumann’s Carnaval, Op. 9. This repertoire reflects the diversity and depth of the young pianist’s talent, promising to take the audience on an emotional journey through different musical eras and styles.

Tickets for each recital are priced at 4 euros and can be purchased directly at the venue. The festival, which has become a landmark event in the city, invites all music lovers to discover and support the future of classical music in these not-to-be-missed recitals.