European festivals Association

Founded in 1997, the annual Vilnius Festival is one of the most prestigious, solid and versatile musical events in Lithuania. With primary interest in presenting classical music, performed by established soloists, ensembles and symphony orchestras from all over the world, it also promotes contemporary Lithuanian music by commissioning new large-scale works, and offers a platform for jazz and musical theatre. The collaboration of its organisers and performers with world-renowned musicians has accelerated the acceptance of not only Lithuania’s musical culture but also its political activities in the international realm. The roster of the celebrated performers, who have been among the favourites of the Vilnius Festival, includes Mstislav Rostropovich, Riccardo Muti, Krzysztof Penderecki, Yuri Bashmet, Gidon Kremer; jazz legends Dave Brubeck, McCoy Tyner, Al Jarreau, Herbie Hancock, Al di Meola, Chick Corea, Paco de Lucia, Wynton Marsalis and the Jazz at Lincoln Center.