NEWS | Noli Musica Festival

The Noli Musica Festival: Where Opera Meets History on the Ligurian Coast

The Noli Musica Festival, now in its seventeenth year, is one of Liguria’s most prestigious musical events. Each summer, this medieval village and ancient Maritime Republic transforms into an evocative, starlit stage for both classical and experimental productions. It offers the perfect opportunity to explore one of Italy’s most beautiful historic villages—famed for its mention in Dante Alighieri’s Divina Commedia—where you can swim in crystal-clear waters and enjoy world-class concerts held within the historic walls of Monte Ursino Castle, inside historic churches, and across the charming squares nestled between narrow carrugi alleys.

The Artistic Vision and Tribute to Renata Scotto

At the heart of the festival is bass-baritone Matteo Peirone. Renowned globally for his basso buffo and carattere roles—gracing stages from Teatro alla Scala to the Salzburg Festival—Peirone crafts immersive opera productions that beautifully integrate local history with the region’s finest traditions.

The festival also celebrates its profound connection with the legendary soprano Renata Scotto. Born in nearby Savona, Scotto spent her summer holidays in Noli and served as the festival’s patroness from its inception, infusing the event with her peerless charisma and diva allure. Over the years, the festival’s prestigious “A Lifetime for Music” award has been presented to international icons, including the unforgettable Peruvian tenor Luigi Alva.

A Stellar Lineup: From Bach to Britten

This year’s edition opens with a concert by acclaimed cellist Mario Brunello, featuring music by Bach and Weinberg. The program continues with Benjamin Britten’s community opera, Noye’s Fludde, marking the 50th anniversary of the composer’s death. The production stars Matteo Peirone alongside Linda Campanella. Born and raised in Noli, Campanella has built a distinguished international career as a coloratura soprano, boasting a versatile repertoire that spans from Baroque masterpieces to contemporary projects.

Inside the Wardrobe of a Diva

A major highlight of the event is the evocative exhibition “I costumi della Diva” (The Diva’s Costumes). Held in the Council Chamber, the display features the iconic costumes worn by Renata Scotto during her historic performances at the Metropolitan Opera House. Among them is the precious kimono from Madama Butterfly, a role for which she remains the definitive reference. For the very first time, visitors can also admire original costume sketches designed by Scotto herself and brought to life by the world’s leading theatrical fashion houses.

Grand Galas and Magical Finales

The third Renata Scotto Grand Gala will spotlight rising star Alessia Panza. The young soprano, a winner of multiple prestigious competitions, is currently launching a stellar international career. She will be joined on stage by the Chorus of the Teatro Carlo Felice of Genoa, conducted by Maestro Giulio Magagnanini.

The festival’s diverse programming also features:

Folk Music: A performance by I Radicanto, who will reinvent the timeless music of Domenico Modugno.

Chamber Music: An intimate evening with the Hermès Trio, tackling a rich Romantic repertoire.

To close the festival, Monte Ursino Castle will transform into a realm of fairy tales and dreams. A grand finale dedicated to the music of Walt Disney will feature soprano Linda Campanella, accompanied by a spectacular light and sound show showcasing fairy-tale costumes created by the innovative Teatro della Tosse.

What better opportunity to discover one of Italy’s most breathtaking villages and immerse yourself in music and atmosphere of rare, timeless beauty?