Overview
- Zubin Mehta conducted the Orchestra del Maggio Musicale Fiorentino in the festival’s opening concert and received the Festival de Granada’s Medalla de Honor from Queen Sofía.
- The program was devoted to Mozart’s last three symphonies, Nos. 39, 40 and 41, in a performance that earned strong applause for the visiting orchestra.
- Observers noted a small physical stumble by the 90-year-old Mehta when mounting his conducting chair but said the audience gave him sustained recognition and applause.
- Queen Sofía, the festival’s honorary president, will stay in Granada to preside over a benefit flamenco gala for the Fundación Reina Sofía, and senior cultural officials attended the opening.
- The Festival Internacional de Música y Danza de Granada is marking its 75th edition with an expanded program of more than 100 activities that continue into July.