Ecuador Hosts International Music Festival in Guayaquil

Thousands gathered in downtown Guayaquil — the second major city in Ecuador — to kick off the summer with a four-day music festival that unites cultures and music from around the world in the Festival of Music.

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DJ Freddy Vallejos started the party off with his electrifying dance music in front of the Alliance Francaise, the host of the event. Bands will take the stage throughout the week, with a classical music concert scheduled for Friday evening followed by acts from students of the arts universities, the College of the Republic of France and Borkis Entertainment as well as Latin American favorites on Saturday.

"Everyone can come down from their apartment and play on the street. It is a day of sharing, for people to stop to listen to one or another group," said Laurent Guyonvarch, director general of the Alliance Francaise in Guayaquil.

Organizers have arranged an event called, “Together for Music” in the Plaza Colon as a tribute to the concerts roots which will exhibit winners of the French Song contest sponsored and promoted by the alliance on Saturday.

Celebrated since the early 80s, the Festival of Music was initiated by France and has spread around the world through Alliance Francaise. Music lovers of all ages are invited, with music styles changing every year, so that all genres can be appreciated and shared. The idea behind the movement is to create a safe environment to celebrate diversity, build and strengthen human connections, and spread culture awareness through music.

Both amateur and professional musicians are welcomed and encouraged to perform and share their talent.

These events are primarily organized by the five Alliance Francaise in Ecuador as well as numerous cultural and musical organizations, businesses, conservatories, music schools, institutions and private sponsors.

Cuenca will host its own event from June 16-17, where its 20-year old festival has attracted more than 25,000 concert goers in the past.