Arrels de llum

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Image courtesy of Grec Festival de Barcelona.

Arrels de llum is an inspiring collaboration in a symbolic year marking the completion of the Tower of Jesus, the centenary of Antoni Gaudí’s death, and the 50th anniversary of the Barcelona Grec Festival. With the aim of creating a restrained, meaningful and moving choral performance, Arrels de llum brings together the Cor Cererols, conducted by Marc Díaz, and singers Lídia Pujol and Maria Arnal. Nature, architecture, spirituality and music come together in a musical journey from the 14th to the 21st century.

There are three main connections between the mountain of Montserrat, the Sagrada Família basilica and Montjuïc:

Firstly, the similarity between the Tower of Jesus and the needle-like peaks of Montserrat, not only in terms of shape but also in their symbolic role as a “beacon” for the people of Catalunya and Barcelona.

Secondly, Antoni Gaudí’s profound reverence for nature and, given his faith, his belief that architecture should never surpass divine creation, which led him to make sure his tower would not be taller than Montjuïc. This mountain in Barcelona not only inspired Gaudí but also provided stone for the construction of the Sagrada Família and is today a venue for the Grec Festival.

Thirdly, the symbolism of Montserrat, understood as an epitome of what Montjuïc represents for Barcelona, both geographically, historically and culturally. Montserrat is home to the Escolania boys’ choir and has created an extraordinary musical tradition that reinforces this spiritual, cultural and artistic role.

The title of the project evokes the light in the Sagrada Família—where stained-glass light inhabits a forest of columns—sustaining the radiant presence of the Tower of Jesus. 

In this concert, faith and nature, core themes of Gaudí’s universe, merge and are expressed through light and music, which becomes the guiding thread of the performance.

Attendance is free, but tickets are required for entry. Those who wish to attend must participate in a ticket lottery from July 1 to 5.

Sounds of the City: Summer Music Festivals

What are your plans for summer? If you’re staying in the city, you won’t be alone. Barcelona is becoming a go-to destination for festival lovers, given Catalunya’s covetable combination of culture, great weather and an increasingly diverse concert circuit. So if you’re looking to expand your horizons while staying put this season, check out our article Sounds of the City: Summer Music Festivals for a summary of the summer music events taking place in Barcelona, from big-name gatherings to boutique takeovers.

For more music events check our online events calendar.