International Music in Italy

Maggio Musicale Fiorentino

Music has always been an important part of Florence’s rich artistic culture and tradition.  Maggio Musicale Fiorentino is a music and arts festival held in Florence during the months of April, May and June.  The opera performances are at Teatro Communale and Teatro della Pergola.  The classical concerts are conducted by Zubin Mehta and by the Orchestra Regionale Toscano.  There are also dance and ballet performances.  Many famous conductors (Vittorio Gui, Bruno Walter, Zubin Mehta), singers (Maria Callas) and composers (Mascagni, Strauss, Stravinsky) have performed at Teatro Communale in Florence.  Maggio Musicale is one of the most exciting musical events in Italy and many visit Florence to enjoy this wonderful music festival!!

Pistoia Blues

Pistoia Blues is an international blues festival held every July in the piazza Duomo in Pistoia.  This is one of the most famous blues festivals in Europe.  Many great artists such as Frank Zappa, Jimmy Page, B.B. King, Santana, Bob Dylan and Deep Purple have performed at this festival.  This year Pistoia Blues is from July 14^th – 18^th. 

Umbria Jazz Festival

The Umbria Jazz Festival is one of the most important jazz festivals in Europe and in the world.  It takes place in the beautiful city of Perugia where people from all over the world come to enjoy this great festival!  Many famous musicians who have performed here include Gato Barbieri, B.B. King, Sting, Eric Clapton, James Brown, George Benson and Tony Bennett.  This festival is filled with international jazz music and other world music too.  This year the Umbria Jazz Festival will be held July 9^th – 18^th and performers include Mark Knopfler, Pat Matheny, Chick Corea, Sonny Rollins, The Manhattan Transfer, Melody Gardot, Enrico Rava and Stefano Bollani.  This is a must-see fun event!!

Photos courtesy of emmepa, Evan Shay, and desta