International Piano Festival of the Silver Coast

In 2023, the International Piano Festival of the Silver Coast starts on the 2nd of July and ends on the 9th of August, while the the International Piano Master Classes - SIPO (Semana Internacional de Piano de Óbidos) take place between the 31st of July and the 10th of August. The event is made up of piano and chamber music master classes that span a period of 10 days and are part of the International Piano Festival of the Silver Coast (Festival Internacional de Piano do Oeste) taking place between the 28th of July and the 12th of August. The two events complement each other, the first being a pedagogical and performance action, while the second features a series of concerts and recitals focused on keyboard instruments, but also covering chamber and choir music. In addition, the Festival includes an Exhibition of Fine Arts (sculpture/painting) and a conference featuring illustrious international and Portuguese representatives of civil society and musicologists.

SIPO's master classes are held in residence thus promoting a prolonged interaction, both in musical and human terms (classes, study, teaching, meals, concerts) between students and the faculty allowing for an intense cultural and social exchange. SIPO works with a team of renowned pedagogues and resident artists of recognized international merit. The resident and guest artists perform at the International Piano Festival of the Silver Coast, presenting a diversified program. The quality of the performers and the interaction with the public (commented concerts, meetings between the public and the artists) make the event stand out in relation to conventional concerts, as it offers a diaologue between the artists and the public. Due to the intrinsically international character of the event, the intercultural exchange is yet another added value.

Future enhanced cooperation with the municipalities of the region involved will increase territorial coverage and help to create new habits and audiences. In the last 27 years, the event has contributed to culturally enhance the image of the Region.