The idea of the FAB, under the artistic direction of Katalin Kokas and Barnabás Kelemen, was born in 2002: it is an excellent opportunity for Budapest to host a chamber music festival at the Liszt Academy of Music and other major cultural institutions, filling the heart of the capital with music during the summer months. This internationally renowned festival is one of the most prestigious in the world and has been held annually since 2016, accompanied by a series of professional events and masterclasses. In addition to leading national soloists, FAB has welcomed prestigious international artists such as Joshua Bell, Nicolas Altstaedt, Gidon Kremer, Patricia Kopatchinskaja, Shlomo Mintz, Maxim Rysanov, Alina Ibragimova, Vilde Frang, Shai Wosner and many more.
The FAB is also dedicated to discovering the musicians of tomorrow, supporting their training and professional development. From the outset, lectures and masterclasses in cultural institutions have played a central role in the festival. The organisation of the Ilona Fehér International Violin Competition has been an important part of its activities since 2017.
The festival takes place at several exceptional venues across the city of Budapest.
Budapest is easily accessible by plane from the Liszt Ferenc International Airport or by train from the Eastern or Western Train Station.
Budapest is filled with places of great historical and cultural interest. From museums, like the National Museum of Fine Arts, Hungarian National Museum, Kunsthalle, Q Contemporary, to various galleries, theatres, restaurants... Tourist can also enjoy the amazing view of the Danube and the 2 sides of Buda and Pest.
There is no specific dress code for the events. As the festival takes place in summer, the audience is welcome to enjoy the performances in what ever they feel comfortable.
Budapest offers an incredible variety of restaurants, coffee shops and bars all over the city. You can enjoy the traditional Hungarian cuisine, as well as restaurants that offer plenty of dishes from all over the world. Do not miss on the spicy Hungarian gulyás.
