Friends of Music celebrates 25th anniversary
Brussels, 15 May 2013
IFPI, the organisation representing the recording industry worldwide, celebrates the 25th Anniversary of Friends of Music concerts in the European Parliament. British singer-songwriter Joss Stone and Romanian soprano Angela Gheorghiu will be performing live at the event.
Over the last 25 years, Friends of Music has showcased some of the greatest talents in the recording industry and celebrated the value that music brings to Europe.
The event welcomes guests from the European Parliament, European Commission and Permanent Representations.
Frances Moore, CEO of IFPI, says: "I am delighted that Joss Stone and Angela Gheorghiu have agreed to perform at Friends of Music. In doing so, they join a long list of illustrious artists who have taken part in this event over the years. Music is one of the areas in which Europe excels on the global stage, and Europe's performers contribute not only to its vast cultural heritage and diversity, but to its economic potential."
Previous guests and performers at the event, amongst many, include Sir Yehudi Menuhin, Beatles producer George Martin, Dame Elisabeth Schwarzkopf, Björn Ulvaeus of ABBA, Imelda May, Jamie Cullum, Andrea Bocelli, Madeleine Peyroux, Toots Thielemans and The Corrs.
Guest of Honour, European Commissioner for Education, Culture, Multilingualism and Youth, Androulla Vassiliou said: "Friends of Music is a wonderful celebration of the success and variety of Europe's music and culture, which we must continue to value and nurture. Europe's artists are among our greatest assets, and we must ensure that their art can be seen and heard around the world and that their talent is properly acknowledged and remunerated."
An indicative Spotify Playlist of all Friends of Music artists can be heard at Friends of Music 25 Years.
About Friends of Music
Friends of Music is an exclusive series of musical events organised by the European Office of IFPI, the organisation representing the recording industry worldwide. It is the ideal opportunity for a relaxed discussion on the many benefits that music brings to Europe.
About the artists
For more information on Joss Stone and Angela Gheorghiu, please go to www.jossstone.com and www.angelagheorghiu.com.