The Fundació Orfeó Català-Palau De La Música Catalana is a leading cultural and musical reference point in Barcelona with over 130 years of history. The Fundació is the main driver of Catalan choral culture and tradition, strengthened by its mission of promoting music, particularly choral singing and aiding in the bolstering of social cohesion. The Nando and Elsa Peretti Foundation – Delegació a Catalunya (NaEPF) is privileged to support the institutional endeavours of the Palau de la Música from 2024 to 2026, and to hold a seat on the Patronage Council of this venerable institution.

The Palau, situated in the vibrant heart of Barcelona, is not only a jewel of Catalan Modernism but also a bustling hub of cultural activities. Built between 1905 and 1908 by the architect Lluís Domènech i Montaner, the Palau was initially funded by the Orfeó Català, a choral society founded by Lluís Millet and Amadeu Vives. Over the decades, it has hosted a myriad of performances, ranging from symphonic and chamber music to jazz and cançó (Catalan song).

Today, it is an established meeting point for the cultural and social life of Catalonia. Thanks to both its architectural beauty and its concert programming, the Palau is the only concert hall to have been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, hosting approximately 600 concerts annually. Since 2011 the Palau de la Música Catalana has been a proud member of the European Concert Hall Organization (ECHO), a consortium of the most esteemed auditoriums and concert venues across Europe.

Looking forward, the Palau de la Música Catalana has outlined a strategic plan focused on three primary goals: enhancing accessibility, promoting Catalan musical heritage, and embracing sustainability. The aim is to make the Palau more accessible to a diverse audience, including tourists and local communities who may not traditionally engage with classical music. Efforts to enhance digital access through virtual tours and streaming of concerts are also underway, broadening its reach globally. Promoting Catalan musical heritage remains at the core of the Palau’s mission. This involves not only regular performances of works by Catalan composers but also educational programs aimed at inspiring the next generation of musicians. The integration of contemporary Catalan music into the regular programming is seen as vital in keeping the region’s musical legacy alive and vibrant. Sustainability is another critical aspect of the Palau’s strategy. This includes reducing the environmental impact of its operations, promoting sustainable practices within the facility, and engaging with partners who share a commitment to eco-friendly initiatives.

The Palau continues to expand its educational outreach through workshops, lectures, and interactive concerts designed to engage children and young adults. These initiatives are aimed at cultivating an appreciation for the arts and encouraging cultural participation from a young age. The blend of historical reverence and contemporary engagement makes the Palau an enduring symbol of Catalan cultural identity and a pivotal player in the global arts scene.