Every September, the Mercat de la Música Viva de Vic (MMVV) transforms the historic town of Vic into the epicenter of live music in Catalonia. The 2024 edition, set to take place from September 18th to 21st, marks the 36th year of this influential festival. With more than sixty performances spread across multiple venues, ranging from intimate settings to large public squares, the MMVV offers a diverse array of musical genres, from folk and flamenco to jazz, rock, and avant-garde performances.

The festival not only attracts music lovers but also serves as a major industry event, drawing nearly a thousand accredited professionals, including managers, producers, record label representatives, and artists. This year, the festival’s focus is on fostering collaboration, offering a platform for emerging talents, and presenting new projects from well-established acts.

As a nod to its international scope, the MMVV 2024 features artists from across Europe, Africa, and the Americas, alongside a strong representation of Catalan and Spanish musicians. The festival also includes seven co-productions and showcases the special participation of Portugal as the featured country.

A Look at the Program: Day-by-Day Highlights
Wednesday, September 18, 2024: The Festival Kicks Off
The first day of MMVV 2024 will be packed with captivating performances, beginning with the grand opening concert by Lucia Fumero at the Teatre R. Montanyà at 19:00. Known for her unique fusion of jazz and folklore, the Barcelona-born pianist and singer will debut her new project Folclore, a collaboration with Portuguese singer Salvador Sobral.

Later that evening, audiences can enjoy performances by artists like Vic Mirallas, an acclaimed Catalan pop musician, at Auditori J. Maideu (20:15), and Maestro Espada (22:30), whose sound blends modern folk with traditional Spanish music. For those seeking free performances, the Carpa L'Atlàntida will host the energetic salsa band Papa Orbe y Los Científicos del Sabor at 23:45, providing a lively end to the opening day.

The festival’s opening day is also rich in industry events, with performances for accredited professionals from Galgo Lento (12:30) and Namina & The Barbarians (16:30), setting the tone for networking opportunities between artists and industry leaders.

Thursday, September 19, 2024: Global Influences Take the Stage
The second day of the festival will see a blend of local and international acts. The Barcelona-based experimental rock band Blood Quartet will collaborate with Korean group Dongyang Gozupa in a fascinating cross-cultural performance at Auditori J. Maideu (20:45). This is part of the festival’s emphasis on co-productions, encouraging collaborations between artists from different musical traditions.

Fans of alternative rock should not miss the concert by Mourn at 12:30 in the same venue, followed later by Aaron Rux & The Crying Cowboys (23:30), whose Americana-inspired tunes offer a unique blend of country and indie rock.

Over at the Carpa L'Atlàntida, free performances continue with Lisasinson (18:45), Gorka Urbizu (22:00), and Paula Peso (00:15). These acts represent a range of musical styles, from indie pop to folk, providing something for every musical taste.

Jazz lovers will find solace in Blu Nana at the Jazz Cava (20:45), followed by Roko Banana (23:00), an experimental jazz ensemble known for their dynamic improvisation.

Friday, September 20, 2024: A Tribute to Catalan Music
On Friday, the festival will honor the rich musical heritage of Vic with the EMVIC, 180 anys concert at Plaça Major Vera at 20:30. This special event celebrates the 180th anniversary of the Escola de Música i Conservatori de Vic and will feature performances by some of its most successful alumni, including Joana Serrat, Obeses, and Núria Graham. The concert will highlight the incredible contributions of Vic’s conservatory to the Catalan music scene.

Another must-see act on Friday is the Marc Miralta Flamenco Vibes at Auditori J. Maideu (20:00). Blending flamenco rhythms with modern jazz elements, Miralta’s music provides a fresh take on traditional Spanish genres. Also performing at the Auditori is Magalí Datzira (22:15), whose sultry jazz vocals have won her a growing fan base in Spain and beyond.

The night will close with free performances at El Sucre Estrella Damm, including the vibrant sounds of Mushka (01:30) and Mama Dousha (24:00), ensuring a memorable finish to the day.

Saturday, September 21, 2024: A Grand Finale
The final day of the MMVV 2024 promises a spectacular finish with some of the festival’s biggest acts. Miki Núñez, a popular Catalan pop singer, will perform at El Sucre Estrella Damm at 24:00, followed by Roba Estesa (01:30), whose folk-rock fusion is sure to get the crowd moving.

Meanwhile, the Plaça Major Vera will host the inimitable Albert Pla & The Surprise Band at 21:45, followed by Ferran Palau at 23:15, offering a melodic close to the day with his dreamy indie-folk sound.

The Teatre R. Montanyà will showcase the eclectic flamenco stylings of Niño de Elche at 21:30, followed by Bombino at 23:30. Hailing from Niger, Bombino is an internationally acclaimed Tuareg guitarist whose hypnotic desert blues have earned him a Grammy nomination, making this one of the festival’s most anticipated performances.

Portugal as the Featured Country
In 2024, Portugal takes center stage as the featured country at the MMVV, reflecting the festival’s commitment to showcasing global talent. Portuguese artists Sopa de Pedra, Sús, Bicho Carpinteiro, and Tó Trips Trio will all perform throughout the festival, bringing a wide range of musical styles from traditional Portuguese folk to contemporary fusion.

Portugal’s representation at the MMVV exemplifies the festival’s role as a cultural bridge, fostering international dialogue and collaboration through music.

The Industry Side: Opportunities for Professionals
Beyond the public concerts, the MMVV serves as a critical meeting point for music industry professionals. With close to 1,000 accredited professionals attending each year, the festival has become an essential platform for networking, artist development, and business opportunities. Managers, agents, producers, and record labels from around the world come together at the MMVV to discover new talent, explore partnerships, and exchange ideas.

The MMVV also highlights technological innovations in the music industry, with collaborations involving organizations like the Mobile World Congress and Barcelona Music Lab. These partnerships aim to create synergies between music and technology, helping artists and industry professionals navigate the rapidly changing digital landscape.

Conclusion
As the Mercat de la Música Viva de Vic enters its 36th year, it remains a vibrant, dynamic, and essential event in the European music calendar. With its eclectic lineup of over sixty performances, the festival offers something for everyone, from die-hard music fans to industry insiders. Whether you're looking to discover the next big thing in music or simply enjoy a weekend of exceptional live performances, the MMVV 2024 is the place to be this September.

With a rich lineup of 60 artists, including performances from Bombino, Niño de Elche, Joana Serrat, and Els Amics de les Arts, the 36th edition of the Mercat de la Música Viva de Vic promises an eclectic blend of local and international talent, offering a dynamic celebration of contemporary music.