This project, created by the Association of Micro-Villages of Catalonia and Aktive, has transformed musical programming in rural areas, reaching 121 towns since its inception in 2021. Its essence lies in bringing culture to places where organizing musical events is complex, using it as a tool for social cohesion.
During its first five editions, the festival has visited twenty-four towns in the Alt Empordà region, featuring local artists such as Alverd Oliva, Laura Guerrero, Foresta, Velvet Jeans, and the Maria Teresa Noguera Quartet. This commitment to proximity and small-format performances facilitates logistics and allows for concerts in unconventional spaces, such as squares or sports centers, with flexible schedules.
“"The people of the village see us, we can record videos, publish things, and professionally, it gives us visibility."
Pianist Ultano Gómez, a member of Duo Scala, highlights the importance of Itinera for musicians' visibility. His group, with an eclectic repertoire ranging from blues to bossa nova, has created a special proposal with 'five musical menus dedicated to five types of couples,' each with three pieces lasting approximately one hour.
“"This project allows us to promote music that would not normally reach micro-villages."
Agnès Fort, director of Itinera, emphasizes that the festival offers a 'tailor-made service' for municipalities facing organizational challenges. The festival guarantees four performances for selected artists, with the sole requirement that at least one group member be registered in a micro-village. The sixth edition of Itinera will officially run from June 1 to November 30, with performances already scheduled for April.
This initiative not only enriches local cultural life but also democratizes access to culture, making it accessible and decentralized. The spirit of Itinera reinforces the idea that music can transform micro-villages and connect communities, giving a voice to talents that would otherwise have fewer opportunities to reach a broad and diverse audience.
