"The theme of this edition, which is very dear to me, is that of Memory. Theme, around which a sought-after program is structured, which reaches its "climax" in the staging of Der Kaiser von Atlantis, an opera composed by Viktor Ullmann. While the opening of the Festival is entrusted to Olivier Messiaen's Quatuor pour la fin du temps, from which artist Carlos Garaicoa draws inspiration for the installation entitled Abismo, which will be presented on the same day. Music thus becomes an instrument of memory. In order not to forget the horrors of dictatorships and wars. But also an instrument of dialogue and hope. Through its universal language that knows no barriers. The Festival includes, as usual, a rich and varied program that includes baroque music, opera, symphony concerts, great chamber music with artists-in-residence, musical comedy and jazz, lecture-concerts, book presentations and lectures. And, starting this year, contemporary art thanks to the collaboration with Galleria Continua, which will also offer a solo exhibition by Garaicoa for the entire period of the festival. Events will take place in Lerici and other places in the province such as the Firmafede Fortress in Sarzana, the Opificio Vaccari in Ponzano Magra, and the Church of San Pietro in Portovenere. I am particularly attached to this musical program on which I have been working for years and which I consider incredibly relevant and important. Memory and Hope."

Maestro Gianluca Marcianò, Artistic Director