The Festival della Valle d’Itria presents two special off-program events dedicated to books that offer passionate and original insights into the world of opera. Two public meetings with leading authors in the Italian musical and cultural scene.
Il loggionista impenitente
by Alberto Mattioli
Sunday, 17 July, 5:30 PM
A tribute to opera, written with wit, intelligence and heartfelt passion. Not just a collection of reviews, but a vivid personal journey through a life-long love for the lyric theatre. Alberto Mattioli leads us through works, performers, controversies and reflections—engaging even the most skeptical.
Speakers: Silvia Colasanti, Fabio Andrea Tramontano, Fabio Giudici.
Alberto Mattioli is a journalist and author, contributing to La Stampa, Il Foglio, Amadeus and other publications. Dramaturg of the Donizetti Festival in Bergamo, he has published several books on opera and Italian culture.
La Tebaldi e la Callas
by Giancarlo Landini and Giovanni Vitali
Wednesday, 30 July, 6:30 PM
A rigorous and passionate reading that compares two legendary voices of the twentieth century: Renata Tebaldi and Maria Callas. Through scores, interpretations and stylistic choices, the authors reveal the artistic greatness of two prima donnas, beyond myths and rivalries. The book was awarded the 2025 Verdi Letterati Prize.
Giancarlo Landini, musicologist and historian of vocal art, is the author of essays and collaborator with Italy’s major opera institutions.
Giovanni Vitali is casting manager and head of cultural promotion at the Maggio Musicale Fiorentino, as well as essayist and editorial curator.
Speaker: Rino Carrieri
Two opportunities to rediscover opera through the eyes of those who live it, study it, and passionately share its stories.
