Perugia and five other Umbrian towns – Torgiano, San Gemini, Montefalco, Foligno, and Scheggino – will host the 80th edition of the Sagra Musicale Umbra from 5 to 20 September 2025. One of Italy’s longest-running festivals, this edition pays tribute to visionary music, exploring unconventional languages and works by composers who have broken free from the rules to open new expressive paths.

The festival opens on 5 September in Perugia with a double event: a lecture-concert on the era of Frederick II of Prussia and a performance by Ensemble 1700 featuring a program dedicated to the transition from the Baroque to the galant style. The program includes numerous events in historic venues such as the Basilica of San Pietro, the Auditorium of San Francesco al Prato, and the Cathedral of San Lorenzo.

Among the most anticipated concerts is the one on 12 September featuring Accademia Bizantina, Ottavio Dantone, and the St. Jacob’s Chamber Choir from Stockholm, celebrating both the University for Foreigners of Perugia and the festival’s 80th anniversary. On 14 September, the event “Journey to Kantara” reflects on Cyprus as a cultural crossroads. On 19 September, the Accademia Hermans will symbolically close the symphonic program with Mendelssohn’s Lobgesang, joined by three Umbrian choirs.

In addition to the music program, thematic conferences and meetings with scholars and artists expand the perspective. Guests include Marco Carminati, Cristina Mecucci, Marco Tortoioli, and Vito Mancuso. “Musica con Vista” returns with concerts in historic residences, along with the “Voci della Città” series, featuring regional choral ensembles in the final concert on 20 September in Perugia Cathedral.

For more information: https://www.perugiamusicaclassica.com