There are places in Barcelona that seem designed to stop time, and the Paranimfo of the University of Barcelona is undoubtedly one of them. If you add the talent of the freshest and most emerging music scene to the sumptuousness of this space—with its fine woods, historic paintings, and air of academic solemnity—the result is Els Vespres d’Hivern. This series, which has already become an essential classic for surviving the February cold, reaches its twelfth edition this year, consolidating itself as the best-kept secret (or not so much anymore) of the city’s cultural calendar.
The premise remains as unbeatable as ever: quality music, a privileged setting, and completely free admission. Of course, as is often the case with good things in this city, competition for a seat is fierce. That’s why it’s a good idea to have your calendar handy and your finger quick to reserve your invitations, which are released in stages at the end of January.
A female and cutting-edge program
This year, the spotlight falls on four women who perfectly represent the richness and experimentation of contemporary music in Catalonia. Alba Careta will kick things off on Thursday, February 5, presenting Udolç alongside Henrio. This is a contemporary reinterpretation of traditional lullabies, a project born out of the Càntut festival that promises to envelop the Paranimfo in a dreamlike and delicate atmosphere.
She will be followed on February 12 by Amaia Miranda. If you have closely followed the tours of Amaia (from OT) or Christina Rosenvinge, you will probably recognize her face and her guitar. Miranda brings a raw and exciting acoustic performance, where the simplicity of her voice is capable of filling every corner of the immense hall.
The second half of the month is reserved for sound exploration. On February 19, it will be the turn of Cristina López Gómez, an artist who moves masterfully between flamenco roots and the most modern electronic textures. After collaborating with names such as Alizzz and Niño de Elche, López will present the songs from her upcoming album, Fata morgana. Finally, on February 26, Meritxell Neddermann will close the cycle. The pianist, a regular member of Jorge Drexler’s band, will unfold her particular universe where pop, jazz, and electronic music coexist in an organic and avant-garde way.
How to get your tickets without dying in the attempt
Although admission is free, the Paranimfo’s capacity is limited and demand is extremely high. The organizers have designed an invitation reservation system through their official website to avoid queues in the cold. The key dates to note in your diary are January 20, 22, 27, and 29. On each of these days, reservations will open for one of the concerts, so we recommend keeping an eye on the Els Vespres website as soon as 10 a.m. hits if you don’t want to be left disappointed.
As an added tip: the doors usually open half an hour before the concert starts (scheduled for 8:00 p.m.). It’s worth arriving early, not only to secure a good seat, but also to enjoy the architecture of the historic UB building before the music starts. It’s probably the most elegant and economical way to spend a Thursday night in Barcelona.
A stage with centuries of history
The Paranimfo is not just any stage. Located in the heart of Gran Via, this space is the soul of the University of Barcelona. Designed by Elies Rogent in the 19th century, it is the venue for the most solemn academic events, but it has also served as a refuge for popular culture at key moments.
The acoustics of the space, with its high ceilings and Mudejar ornamentation, offer a sound experience that is difficult to replicate in any other concert hall in the city. Being able to enjoy electronic pop or avant-garde jazz under those oil paintings is simply a luxury that only Barcelona can offer us from time to time.