Albenga, a town in the province of Savona, is set to host the music festival “Concertando tra i Leoni” from 21 to 24 August 2025. The event will take place in Piazzetta dei Leoni, a historic square located behind the Cathedral, recognised for the three stone lions that give the area its name. These lions, which originated from Rome and were installed in 1608 by the Counts Costa, are among the most distinctive symbols of Albenga’s old town.
The festival, established over twenty years ago, aims to enhance the charm of this evocative location by combining performances from established musicians with the architectural beauty of the site. Organised by the Albenga branch of UCAI (Catholic Union of Italian Artists) under the artistic direction of Giovanni Sardo, the event features four evenings of varied musical programmes set within the city’s historical context. The project also benefits from the support of local institutions, which have contributed to its development and continuity.
During the festival, the “Premio dei Leoni” award is presented. This accolade honours individuals or groups who have made significant contributions to promoting cultural life in the area. Crafted by ceramic artist Caterina Massa, the prize has been awarded over the years to various local figures and associations that have played an active role in Albenga’s cultural scene.
The musical schedule includes performances by artists with diverse backgrounds and repertoires. On 21 August, the clarinetist Rocco De Bernardis and pianist Leo Binetti will perform together. De Bernardis holds diplomas in clarinet and conducting, and has collaborated with numerous artists, including performing alongside tenor José Carreras. Binetti, skilled in both piano and jazz, has toured France and played with the Saverio Mercadante Orchestra.
The following day, the Duo Paul Hindemith will take the stage, featuring oboist Gian Marco Solarolo and pianist Cristina Monti. Their focus is primarily on 20th-century chamber music, although their repertoire also includes earlier periods. They have given over 700 concerts internationally and recorded for major radio broadcasters.
On 23 August, the project Mediterranea, led by maestro Andrea Candeli, will offer a musical journey inspired by the poetry of Federico Garcia Lorca, accompanied by music, singing, and flamenco dance. The ensemble includes flamenco dancer and singer Corrado Ponchiroli, dancer Chiara Guerra, and flautist Michele Serafini, all of whom have significant artistic experience in flamenco and classical music.
The final evening, 24 August, will feature a trio comprising flautist Giuseppe Nova, violinist Giovanni Sardo, and accordionist Sergio Scappini. Nova has performed internationally in prestigious concert halls worldwide. Sardo, who is also the festival’s artistic director, has experience with European youth orchestras, while Scappini is the holder of Italy’s first accordion professorship. Their programme will include contemporary tango compositions.
This edition of the festival reaffirms Albenga’s commitment to fostering musical culture within a setting that highlights both the auditory arts and the city’s architectural and historical heritage. The event offers locals and visitors alike the opportunity to enjoy quality music in a unique environment.