The Sounds of ‘Markets in Music’ 2017

The “Arte e Mercati” Association seeks to paint the Sant’ Ambrogio Market, Loggia del Porcellino/Mercato Nuovo of Florence with music and culture. The free events of “Markets in Music” will strengthen the bonds the community has with these locations, encouraging native pride. The markets attract multitudes of diverse visitors daily, but these night time events will add a fresh creative initiative to make it more than a daytime tourist attraction. Performances will be held in the market area after they have been packed up.

There will be a diverse spread of musical styles, ranging from classical, modern, and ethnic idioms. The program will begin September 1 (9:30 pm) at the Loggia del Porcellino (pictured), with the music based on the “Gulliver’s Travels” by Jonathan Swift. The novel is divided into four parts, each reflecting their own voyages, whether it to England, Ireland, Italy, or France. The Maggio Musicale Antiqua Ensemble are the featured artists.

On September 9, again at the Loggia del Porcellino, the Geneva Youth Brass Orchestra will claim the outdoor stage (9:30 pm).  Founded in 1881, and based in Switzerland, the orchestra will present their compositions of original brass music. The group’s repertoire includes film scores and marches.

Later into the month, on September 23 at the Sant’ Ambrogio Market, there will be a showcase of Russian music from before and after the October 1917 revolution (9:30 pm).

The festival’s concluding evening on September 29, once more at the Sant’ Ambrogio Market (9:30 pm), will focus on a lively installment of tango. Elegant and passionate, the performance includes electronic tango, guitars, vocals, and dancers.

For more information and background on the musical guests, visit www.mercatiinmusica.com/mercati-in-musica-2017/. (jennifer klammer)