On the occasion of ‘Fête de la Musique 2016’, which is globally known as ‘World Music Day’, Alliance Française de Dhaka (AFD) has arranged a two-day music festival at its premises in the city’s Dhanmondi area. The programme will be held today and tomorrow from 1 pm to 5 pm at La Galerie of AFD. The programme of the first day will feature several solo and group songs presented in Bangla, English and French language and it will be performed by the students and teachers of French language, cultural workshops (violin, guitar, piano) as well as outsiders.
On the second day, rock band Monoshoroni will perform at the festival, while Rahin Haider will play saxophone, followed by performances of bands comprised of young talented musicians. ‘Fête de la Musique’, also known as World Music Day, is a music festival that began in France in 1982. The idea was conceived by French Minister of Culture, Jack Lang, in 1981. Since then June 21st has been celebrated every year in more than hundred countries in Europe and over the world as the World Music Day. The concept of ‘Fête de la Musique’ is an open air and non-stop musical performances, to help make all sorts of music accessible to the public. It gives an opportunity to commune and share a special bond through music. This music day allows the expression of all styles of music in a cheerful atmosphere. The musicians are asked to perform for free, and all the concerts are free for the public. It’s the reason why they are used to play in open air areas such as streets and parks or in public buildings like museums, train stations, castles. Furthermore, the ‘Fête de la Musique’ is a way to encourage the major music institutions (orchestra, operas, choirs, etc.) to perform outside their usual locations. These kinds of institutions can also welcome other types of music. In this way ‘Fête de la Musique’ gives a good opportunity to communicate and share a very special moment through music.

Where: La Galerie, AFD, 26 Mirpur Road, Dhanmondi
When: 12 pm to 5 pm, today & tomorrow