I International Organ Festival 2026 – A Musical Journey Across Menorca

About the Festival

The I International Organ Festival 2026 brings together organists, singers, and instrumentalists for a series of eight concerts spread over three months. Running from July 3 to October 11, the event showcases the newly inaugurated organ of Sant Lluís church and invites audiences to experience a variety of musical styles in historic venues across Sant Lluís, Maó, and es Mercadal.

Sponsor and Vision

The driving force behind the festival is the Sintes‑Grollero Foundation, based in Sant Lluís. Established in 2002 by Captain Antoni Sintes Sintes, the foundation originally focused on scholarships and social aid through Cáritas. In recent years it has expanded its mission to promote cultural projects, and the organ festival is its latest initiative to celebrate local heritage while inviting international talent.

Concert Schedule

Sant Lluís – Church of Sant Lluís

• July 3, 8 p.m. – Opening concert: Ubaldo Rosso (flute), Elena Zegna (voice), Tomé Olives (organ).
• August 16, 7 p.m. – Norbert Itrich (organ) with Nikita Itrich (trumpet).
• October 9, 8 p.m. – Heike & Thomas Theisohn (vocals) and Tomé Olives (organ).

Maó – Santa Maria and Carmel Churches

• July 8, 1 p.m. – Vibeke Astner (organ) at Santa Maria.
• July 10, 1 p.m. – Thomas Rogalla (organ) at Santa Maria.
• July 15, 8:30 p.m. – Augusto Belau (organ) at the Carmel church.
• July 17, 1 p.m. – Ralf Borghof (organ) at Santa Maria.

es Mercadal – Sanctuary of the Bull

• October 11, 12 noon – Closing concert: Heike & Thomas Theisohn (vocals) with Tomé Olives (organ).

Meet the Artists

The festival features a mix of rising stars and seasoned performers:

• Tomé Olives – Local organist and artistic coordinator, guiding the program.
• Ubaldo Rosso – Flutist known for lively Baroque interpretations.
• Elena Zegna – Soprano with a repertoire ranging from sacred to contemporary works.
• Norbert Itrich – Organist and saxophone teacher, bringing a jazzy twist to the organ.
• Nikita Itrich – Trumpeter who adds bright, energetic lines to organ pieces.
• Heike & Thomas Theisohn – Vocal duo celebrated for their harmonious blend of classical and folk influences.
• Additional organists such as Vibeke Astner, Thomas Rogalla, Augusto Belau, and Ralf Borghof each bring their own national flavor to the program.

Why It Matters for Teens

Music festivals like this one offer more than just entertainment:

• Exposure to diverse genres – From Baroque flute pieces to modern vocal arrangements, teens can hear how the organ adapts to different styles.
• Live performance experience – Seeing musicians play in historic buildings helps connect sound with place and history.
• Inspiration to learn an instrument – Watching skilled organists and collaborators may spark interest in taking up piano, organ, or another instrument.
• Community connection – Free or low‑cost concerts encourage friends and families to gather, strengthening local ties.

Conclusion

The I International Organ Festival 2026 is a fresh, accessible celebration of music that highlights the new organ in Sant Lluís while touring Menorca’s most cherished churches and sanctuaries. With a varied lineup of international artists and a schedule designed for easy attendance, the festival invites teens and families alike to explore the power of the organ in a vibrant, community‑focused setting.

For more details, check the original announcement: Source

Images Credit: www.menorca.info