by InTrieste
In the serene embrace of the San Giovanni Park, where urban noise recedes into rustling leaves and distant birdsong, a special concert is set to unfold on Saturday evening as part of the multidisciplinary festival “Palchi nei Parchi.” This traveling event, conceived by the Forestry Service and Forest Corps of the Friuli Venezia Giulia Region and curated by the Luigi Bon Foundation, is not merely an opportunity to enjoy live music but an invitation to reconnect with nature through art.
On August 24, at 6:30 p.m., the Outdoor Area of Teatrino Basaglia will host the highly anticipated “Tribute to Wayne Shorter” concert, a homage to the legendary jazz saxophonist and composer who passed away in 2023 at the age of 89. Shorter’s vast musical legacy will be honored by a quartet of acclaimed musicians from Friuli: saxophonist Nevio Zaninotto, Paolo Corsini on the Fender Rhodes, Alessandro Turchet on double bass, and the renowned drummer U.T. Gandhi. Together, they will retrace the key milestones of Shorter’s career, reinterpreting his most iconic compositions while offering a window into the profound depth of his improvisational genius.
The performance will weave through the intricate history of jazz, exploring its evolution from the genre’s traditional roots to its more experimental and futuristic forms — all in celebration of Shorter’s undeniable contributions to the art form. In case of inclement weather, the concert will be moved indoors to Teatrino Basaglia, preserving the spirit of the event despite nature’s whims.
Preceding the concert, Sergio Nordio of the Regional Meteorological Observatory Arpa FVG will deliver a talk on climate change, aptly titled, “The Wind Changes and So Does the Weather.” The lecture aims to further engage the audience with the natural environment, reinforcing the festival’s theme of reconnection with nature.
To complement the musical experience, attendees are also invited to join a bicycle tour, organized by FIAB, before or after the concert. Those interested must reserve a spot by 6 p.m. on Friday via email.
Folk-Rock and History in Palmanova
The festival’s musical offerings continue on Sunday, August 25, when “Palchi nei Parchi” makes its debut at the historic Baluardo Donato of the Bastions in Palmanova. The folk-rock band Corte di Lunas will take the stage at 6:30 p.m., delivering a performance that blends medieval and progressive influences with modern folk-rock, enriched by polyphonic harmonies and theatrical flourishes. The seven-piece band, including Giordana Gismano on vocals, Martina Fabris on hurdy-gurdy, and Maria Teresa Vivianetti on flute, will perform acoustically, drawing inspiration from the lush, natural surroundings to evoke stories that feel both ancient and alive.
In case of rain, the concert will be relocated to the nearby Teatro Gustavo Modena. But even before the music begins, the historic city of Palmanova itself will come alive with a guided tour of its famous Bastions, offering attendees a rare glimpse into the natural and historical significance of this unique location. The walk, led by local experts, will begin at 5:00 p.m. and last approximately one hour, guiding participants through the green expanse of the fortified park.
As with all events in this series, an expert will deliver a pre-concert presentation. This time, a representative from the Regional Forestry Nurseries will offer insights on the theme “From Seeds to Quality Certification,” further cementing the festival’s dedication to intertwining art, nature, and education.
A Free Festival of Art and Nature
“Palchi nei Parchi” is part of an ambitious effort to offer free cultural programming while encouraging environmental awareness. The festival is open to the public at no cost, with voluntary donations supporting the Green Fundraising Campaign. More information about upcoming events can be found at www.palchineiparchi.it or on the festival’s social media channels.
