Bilbao's typical songs hit New York

This Friday, May 23rd, the Central Park Bandshell in Manhattan will host the encounter of two cosmopolitan cities- Bilbao and New York. After 5 pm, New Yorkers will enjoy the unique musical event that is to take place in the classic New York leisure space.

The European city of Bilbao, today world wide known thanks to Frank Gehry's impressive and monumental Guggenheim Museum building, is also the 700 year old city where Bilbainaidas where born.

Bilbainadas are a type of popular songs, existing only in their hometown city of Bilbao, circa late 19th Century.

Traditionally sang in the company of fine wine and even finer friendship, they chronicle the events taking place at and the surroundings of the old city. Bilbainadas have simple musical arrangements played with traditional instruments such as the accordion, the guitar and specially the voices.

The musical encounter between Bilbao and New York complements the cultural link that has already been established by the Guggenheim Museums in both cities.

On May 23rd, beginning at 5 pm, Bilbao singers Beti Aurrera will perform at the Bandshell, and the event will also feature a very special guest- the poet, artist, singer and MC, La Bruja.

The event, sponsored by the City of Bilbao with Radio Nervión, will be a celebration of the Bilbainadas Contest 20th Anniversary, which yearly encourages and promotes the work of new artists in the arena of this singular type of folk songs.

The concert is free of admission. A seating arrangement will be provided, and the organizers of the event welcome all New Yorkers to experience the rendezvous of these two distinct, yet not so distant cities.