The Portuguese Chamber Orchestra (OCP) returns to the stage of the Póvoa de Varzim International Music Festival on 12 July at 9.00 pm, for an evening that promises to transcend the boundaries of musical gravity.

The concert is conducted by Pedro Carneiro, joined by the voice of Camila Mandillo in an aria from Mozart’s Zaide, as well as an aria from Ligeti’s Le grand Macabre, in a transfiguration of delirious intensity. Pianist and composer Nik Bärtsch will also bring us his masterful fusion of minimalism, jazz and funk with the meticulous precision of contemporary classical music.

In this musical journey that promises to be intense, we will also hear the music of Johann Christian Bach and the world premiere of a concerto for marimba and orchestra, commissioned by FIMPV from Nik Bärtsch, and performed by Pedro Carneiro himself.

The 48th Póvoa de Varzim International Music Festival runs from 5 to 25 July, once again taking place in some of the city’s most iconic cultural venues, establishing itself as a meeting point between tradition, artistic excellence and new audiences.

In addition to the OCP, other confirmed names include the conductor and performer Jordi Savall, a leading figure in early and historically informed music, and the pianist Arcadi Volodos, recognised worldwide for the depth and virtuosity of his performances.

The presence of all these artists underscores the great prestige built up over the 48-year history of the Póvoa de Varzim International Music Festival, as well as the city’s role as a leading venue for classical music in Portugal.