International Contest of Habaneras and Polyphony of Torrevieja

What does this Contest consist of?

The International Contest of Habaneras and Polyphony of Torrevieja is a prestigious festival of choral music held annually in the city of Torrevieja, located in the province of Alicante, Spain. It is one of the most important and recognized events in the field of choral music worldwide.

The contest was founded in 1955 and has since gained great international renown. It takes place during the last week of July, attracting numerous choirs from different countries that compete in two main categories: habaneras and polyphony. Habaneras are a traditional musical genre originating from Cuba, and in this contest, both traditional habaneras and contemporary compositions inspired by this style are performed. The polyphony category encompasses a variety of choral genres, including sacred and secular music from different periods and styles.

During the contest, participating choirs perform at the Auditorio Internacional de Torrevieja, a modern and spectacular venue with exceptional acoustics. Each choir presents a program of habaneras and polyphony before a specialized jury and is evaluated based on criteria such as vocal quality, musical interpretation, artistic expression, and ensemble cohesion. In addition to the competition, the contest offers free outdoor concerts where participating choirs can showcase their art to the general public.

The International Contest of Habaneras and Polyphony of Torrevieja has become an important platform for promoting and preserving choral music, as well as fostering cultural exchange and friendship among participants from different countries. It is a highly anticipated event for choral music lovers, both amateurs and professionals, and has significantly contributed to the development and dissemination of habaneras and polyphony internationally.

Origin and History

The International Contest of Habaneras and Polyphony of Torrevieja has its roots in the musical tradition of the habanera and dates back to the mid-20th century. The habanera is a musical genre that originated in Cuba and became popular in Spain and other countries. During the colonial era, Spanish sailors brought this music to the region of Torrevieja, located on the Mediterranean coast of the province of Alicante.

In 1955, a group of choral music enthusiasts in Torrevieja decided to organize a festival dedicated to the habanera to preserve and spread this musical genre. Thus, the International Contest of Habaneras of Torrevieja was born. In its early editions, the event had a more local character, but as it gained popularity, it started attracting choirs from other regions of Spain and abroad.

Over time, the contest evolved and expanded to also include polyphony, opening its doors to choirs of different styles and choral genres. This allowed the event to become a showcase for choral music in general, while still maintaining its focus on the habanera.

The contest has gained international prestige and has attracted choirs from around the world. The competition has become a meeting point for choral music lovers and a platform for the promotion and dissemination of the habanera and polyphony.

The International Contest of Habaneras and Polyphony of Torrevieja has played a fundamental role in the preservation and promotion of the habanera, as well as in fostering choral music in Spain and internationally. It is a culturally significant event that has left a significant mark in the history of choral music.

What to See in Torrevieja

Torrevieja is a tourist city located on the Mediterranean coast of the province of Alicante, Spain. In addition to its beautiful beaches and pleasant climate, the city offers a variety of places of interest to visit. Here are some recommendations on what to see in Torrevieja:

• Promenade and Beaches: Enjoy a pleasant stroll along the lively Promenade, which stretches along the coast and is filled with restaurants, bars, and shops. Torrevieja has several beautiful beaches, such as Playa del Cura, Playa de los Locos, and Playa de La Mata, where you can relax under the sun and enjoy the sea.
• Natural Park of the La Mata and Torrevieja Lagoons: This natural park is a perfect place for nature lovers. Here, you will find a great diversity of birds and rich flora. You can explore the trails and observe the salt lagoons, which are famous for their therapeutic properties.
• Sea and Salt Museum: This interesting museum showcases the history and importance of the salt industry in Torrevieja. You will learn about salt extraction, the flora and fauna associated with the salt pans, and the influence of salt on the local economy.
• Levante Pier and Marina: Take a walk along the Levante Pier, a long jetty that extends into the sea and offers panoramic views of the coast. At the Marina, you can see boats and yachts, enjoy the lively nightlife, and taste the delicious local cuisine at nearby restaurants and bars.
• Park of the Nations: This park is a peaceful and picturesque place where you can relax and enjoy nature. It features an artificial lake, gardens, picnic areas, and playgrounds for children.
• S-61 Delfin Submarine Museum: If you are interested in naval history, visit this museum located in an authentic submarine of the Spanish Navy. You can explore the interior of the submarine and learn about its operation and life on board.

The city also offers a wide range of water activities, a vibrant nightlife, cultural festivals, and delicious Mediterranean cuisine. Exploring the streets and discovering the local charms is another way to enjoy this beautiful coastal city.

What to Eat in Torrevieja

In Torrevieja, you will have the opportunity to delight in delicious Mediterranean cuisine, highlighting the flavors of the sea. Here are some dishes and local products worth trying when you visit the city:

• Rice Dishes: The Torrevieja area is known for its excellent rice cuisine. Don't miss out on the Valencian paella, arroz a banda (rice cooked with fish), arroz con bogavante (rice with lobster), or arroz negro (prepared with squid ink).
• Fresh Seafood and Fish: As a coastal city, Torrevieja offers a wide variety of fresh seafood and fish. Try the red prawns, langoustines, calamari, sardines, fried anchovies, or Galician-style octopus.
• Salted Fish and Seafood: The salt-producing tradition of the area makes salted products very popular. Try mojama (cured tuna), salted cod, and salted anchovies, which are delicious when accompanied by good toasted bread with tomato.
• Caldero: It is a typical dish from the Costa Blanca region. It consists of a fish and rice stew similar to paella but with a more concentrated and flavorful broth.
• Gazpacho: Perfect for hot days, gazpacho is a cold soup made from tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, garlic, and olive oil. Refreshing and healthy.
• Desserts: For dessert lovers, don't miss the typical sweets of the area, such as sweet potato pastries, anise rolls, almond cookies, and gazpacho cakes.
• Local Wines and Liquors: Accompany your meals with wines from the Alicante region, such as wines with the Alicante Designation of Origin. You can also try traditional liqueurs such as herbal liqueur or cream liqueur.

Remember that Torrevieja offers a wide range of restaurants and bars where you can enjoy these local dishes and products. Explore the city and let yourself be carried away by the flavors of the Mediterranean sea.