For the discerning music lover, Budapest’s salon concerts offer a unique venue in which to appreciate classical music: the Ari S. Kupsus Salon Concert Society.
Budapest is a city renowned for its classical music venues. Operas and concerts are an integral part of the city’s cultural life. The world-famous Budapest Opera House, the Liszt Ferenc Music Academy, and the National Concert Hall on the banks of the Danube all draw large, appreciative crowds. An easily overlooked part of the classical music scene, however, is the salon concert. And the best-known Hidden Gem of these is the Ari S. Kupsus Salon Concert Society.
Admirer of the arts
The Society was founded back in 2002 by Ari S. Kupsus of Finland. Ari is a local entrepreneur and gallery owner who is also a fervent admirer of the arts, especially classical music. Through these concerts, held in his flat in Bródy Sándor utca, the Society supports young classical music students who study at the many famous musical institutions in Budapest. All entrance fees for the concerts are applied to scholarships, which are presented annually at the Gala Award Salon Concert.
The concerts are usually performed on the second Thursday of each month and are always attended by a devoted crowd of regulars. This type of concert offers a completely different dynamic from a large concert hall. Ari’s residence allows musicians and guests the opportunity to join in an intimate setting to better enjoy and appreciate the skills presented.
Following the concerts, which usually last about an hour or so, Ari offers pastries and other snacks, along with wines from the Sümegyi Winery to quench the thirst of attendees and participants alike. It’s yet another excellent opportunity to mingle with local residents and expats alike and to meet the musicians.
These events are not advertised in Budapest magazines or newspapers. Those interested in attending these particular Hidden Gems of Budapest can contact Ari on: ari(at)arikupsusgallery.com for information on upcoming programs.