Young Algarve accordionists from Garvefole win awards in Alcobaça

More than 30 young people from the Algarve stood out in the 28th National Trophy and 9th International Accordion Competition «Cidade de Alcobaça», an event held between 16 and 18 May, and which was part of the International Accordion Week.

The Garvefole Association , based in Loulé, presented 10 students of Professor Nelson Conceição , eight of whom won awards in various categories, both nationally and internationally.

Among the winners were Tiago Conceição, Miguel Coelho, Bruna Palma and Catarina Viegas, with multiple distinctions in solo, duo, trio and quartets.

The Olhão Music Conservatory was also represented, with students Rafael Calão and Maria Beatriz Cabrita, taught by teacher Anabela Silva, winning 1st and 2nd prizes in the international Children 2 category.

The Loulé Music Conservatory – Francisco Rosado took four young people, guided by Vítor Mira.

Apolo Pereira won the Youth Concert category at national level, and Ian Leite won the Beginners 1 category in both aspects of the competition.

Five students of Professor Jorge Alves also participated, with emphasis on João Custódio, winner of the Senior Contemporary category at national level.

There were also prizes for students from the Casa do Povo da Conceição de Faro Music School and the Minerva Artist Philharmonic Society Band from Loulé.

The competition, which had more than 100 participants and judges from Portugal, the United Kingdom, Lithuania, Italy and Serbia, is considered the oldest and most prestigious accordion competition in Portugal.

In addition to the competitive aspect, the event included concerts and masterclasses with internationally renowned names.