Spain

The Moorish occupation, the ardent religiosity, the climate: such factors must have left their mark on the unique musical landscape of Spain. The Mozarabic chant, the Cantigas, the instrumental music of the 16^th century were particular contributions to the history of music. The folklore of Andalusia or Catalonia inspired not only the national composers, but also foreigners, including D. Scarlatti and Boccherini – who worked in Spain – and later on Liszt, Glinka, Rimsky-Korsakov, Debussy and Ravel. There are fine collections of instruments and museums of Albeniz, Falla, of the great interpreters Casals and Segovia and of flamenco. In Sevilla, opera lovers can meet Figaro, Don Juan and Carmen.

Portugal

Compared with Spain, Portugal’s role in musical history is quite modest, but its folk music is abundant and the fado has gained world-wide popularity. Some remarkable examples of historical organ making can be found.