VI., Liszt Ferenc tér 8.
The Academy, officially called the Franz Liszt Academy of Music, was founded in
1875. Its first president was the composer himself, who made a significant
contribution to the creation of the institution, while the first director was
Ferenc Erkel. It is not only for music and artist training, but also a centre of
Budapest's musical life. The present art nouveau building, completed in 1907,
has the most decorative interior of this style. The grand hall with fine
acoustics seats 1,200 people, while 400 music-lovers can sit in the small hall.
It is worth buying a concert ticket just to adore the beauties of the building.
Tram 4,6
VI., Andrássy út 22.
The opening performance of the Opera House was held in the neo-Renaissance
building, the jewel of the avenue, in 1884 after nine years of construction. The
staircase and the auditorium of the palace, designed by one the best architects
of those days Miklós Ybl, are decorated with frescos of eminent Hungarian
painters such as Bertalan Székely, Mór Than and Károly Lotz. The first director
was Ferenc Erkel, Gustav Mahler held this post for several years, and Puccini
directed the premiere of two of his operas. Renown guest conductors include Otto
Klemperer, Sergio Failoni and Lamberto Gardelli. It is still among the best
opera houses of Europe. Well worth a visit for those who do not especially like
operas. Daily guided tours
M1 Opera BUS 4
V, Vigadó tér 2.
On the site of the Redoute, destroyed in 1849, the Pest Concert Hall, a
masterpiece of Hungarian Romantic architecture was opened in 1865, and has been
the venue of significant events. The second largest concert hall of Budapest has
seen the appearance of such celebrities as Franz Liszt, Wagner, Brahms, Richard
StrauB, Bartók and Kodály. Concert hall is open only on events. Apr-Oct elegant
operetta gala concerts. Downstairs is the Vigadó Gallery, and a
brasserie-restaurant.
M1 Vörösmarty tér Tram 2
Be guided in Budapest!
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