hurta cordel: international improvisation festival, madrid january
About hurta cordel festival
Hurta Cordel is an International Festival of Improvisation held annually in Madrid, Spain, typically in January or February. Organized by Musicalibre, a Spanish association of improvising musicians and artists, the festival has been a vibrant platform for experimental music and artistic interaction since its first edition in 1997. It’s a celebration of spontaneous creation, bringing together musicians, poets, painters, and other artists from around the globe to explore the boundaries of improvisation.
Musicalibre: the driving force
Musicalibre, based in Madrid, Leon, Valladolid, and La Coruna, is a non-profit cultural association dedicated to promoting improvised music and fostering artistic exchange. Founded in 1995, the association regularly organizes concerts, seminars, and workshops. A key element of Musicalibre is the FOCO orchestra, formed in 1996, which has become a cornerstone of the Spanish free improvisation scene, consistently performing and evolving.
Festival highlights and international collaboration
Over the years, Hurta Cordel has hosted internationally renowned musicians such as Peter Kowald, Peter Brötzmann, John Butcher, and Joëlle Léandre. The festival aims to create connections between artists from different locations, facilitating a continuous exchange of ideas and laying the groundwork for future collaborations both within and outside of Spain. Musicalibre maintains strong ties with artistic collectives in cities like London, Wuppertal, Berlin, and Toulouse.
Venues and performances
Historically, Hurta Cordel and Musicalibre's performances have taken place in various Madrid venues, including Artépolis in Lavapiés and La Casa de los Jacintos in La Latina. Previously, El Juglar in Lavapiés hosted regular fortnightly concerts. The current programming features a dynamic mix of guest artists, collective members, and mixed groups, ensuring a diverse and engaging musical experience. La Casa Encendida is the current primary host for the festival.
The 2008 edition and featured artists
The 2008 edition of Hurta Cordel showcased a diverse lineup of established and emerging improvisers. The festival kicked off with performances by Llorenç Barber (bell-ringing soloist), John Russell (guitar legend), Jean Demey (bass guitarist), Lotte Anker (saxophonist), and Wilbert de Joode (contrabassist). The festival traditionally culminates with performances by the F.O.C.O. orchestra, directed this year by Michael Fischer, an experienced improviser from Austria.
Participation and scope
Each year, the Hurta Cordel festival welcomes over 50 musicians from 14 different countries. Performances often incorporate video and dance, creating a multi-sensory artistic experience. The festival provides a unique opportunity to witness spontaneous musical creation and engage with a vibrant community of improvising artists. It’s a testament to Musicalibre’s commitment to fostering artistic innovation and international collaboration within the realm of improvised music.