Avanti la Musica

Avanti la Musica: Italy in Amboise since the Renaissance

The Avanti la Musica festival celebrates every year in June the age-old ties between Amboise and Italian culture. Since Charles VIII's return from his Italian campaign in 1495, the royal city has maintained privileged relations with the peninsula, culminating in the invitation of Leonardo da Vinci by Francis I to settle at Clos Lucé. Avanti la Musica perpetuates this tradition by offering a festival blending music, heritage, and the Italian art of living.

The Royal Château of Amboise: a historic setting

The Royal Château of Amboise, a residence of French kings during the Renaissance, is the main venue for the festival. Its historic halls, panoramic terrace overlooking the Loire, and gardens offer diverse spaces for concerts, shows, and musical walks. The Renaissance architecture of the château naturally resonates with the Italian music performed there.

A festive and eclectic program

The festival offers a rich and varied program that unfolds over several days:

• Italian classical music concerts: recitals and ensemble concerts in the château's halls and on its terrace, featuring works ranging from the Renaissance to Italian Romanticism.
• Musical walk: a musical journey through the château gardens, punctuated by performances by small ensembles.
• Parade in the streets of Amboise: a festive procession in the colors of Italy, with musicians and street artists.
• Italian gastronomic market: tasting of Italian specialties in the château gardens.
• Commedia dell'arte show: Italian-style comedy in the royal courtyard, inspired by Renaissance theatrical traditions.

Italian music in all its diversity

The musical program covers a wide repertoire, from Renaissance music to works of Italian Romanticism, including the Baroque of Vivaldi, Corelli, and Scarlatti, the opera of Verdi and Puccini, and chamber pieces by Boccherini and Respighi. This diversity allows the festival to reach a broad audience, from connoisseurs to the simply curious.

A festival that brings heritage to life

By taking over the Royal Château of Amboise, Avanti la Musica contributes to the enhancement of Loire Valley heritage and the city's tourist appeal. The festival attracts visitors from all over France and abroad, seduced by the unique blend of music, gastronomy, and Renaissance architecture. It is part of the rich cultural program of Amboise, a city of art and history in the heart of the Loire Valley.