This past Monday afternoon, the church of Santa Cruz in Ibiza held a moving farewell for Gilberto Tur Riera, a pivotal character in the island's music scene over the past decades. Born in Algiers in 1939 but raised on Ibiza from a young age, Tur dedicated much of his life to nurturing the island’s musical talents and preserving its cultural heritage. Family, friends, and cultural figures gathered to honour the man who left an indelible mark on Ibiza's music community.
The service, appropriately, was filled with music that echoed Tur’s lifelong passion. As the funeral procession arrived at the church, members of the local Music Band, led by Stefano Serra – Tur’s godson – performed a heartfelt tribute. Inside, the choir continued this musical homage during the ceremony. The parish priest, Miguel Ángel Riera, reflected on Tur’s legacy, underscoring his impact on both the culture and the musical education of countless islanders. Tur's contributions have ensured that music remains an integral part of Ibiza's soul.
