As is by now established custom, Budapest Ritmo begins by offering the stage to up and coming artists from Hungary and its region. The showcase day at Szimpla gives a free sample of six bands at the beginning of their career, and the doorstep to international recognition. They get 40 minutes each to convince a select group of world music professionals, and the curious Ritmo crowd.
Following the opening concert by Mazaher, Friday’s journey of discovery is star-studded, featuring Icelandic phenomenon Emilíana Torrini & The Colorist Orchestra and dignitaries of Tuareg desert-rock Tamikrest. Polish-Ukrainian DAGADANA bring jazz-tinged ethnobeat to preach their message of hope and connection. Further stops include: a traditional male choir from Croatia, avant folk from Cyprus, diaspora jam and a DJ set for never-weary Ritmo revellers. A conference offers an excellent networking opportunity, screenings delve into the world of music during the day.
For those who venture further, Saturday’s lineup caters unique cooperations, Catalan jazz, and Cuban a cappella. Dubbed the voice-only version of Buena Vista, Vocal Sampling present rock ballads and Cuban classics a cappella, and make you sing and dance. An explosive jazz experience is delivered by Catalan rising stars Magalí Sare & Manel Fortià. The day sees more networking and shop talk at the conference, and yet more films on the power, context and traditions of music.
Budapest Ritmo is jointly presented by Müpa Budapest and Hangvető in the framework of the Bartók Spring.