Compagnia La Giostra (Faremusica APS)

Compagnia La Giostra is a renowned Sicilian band celebrated for its unique fusion of medieval melodies, ethnic sounds, and cultural traditions. For over two decades, La Giostra has captivated audiences across Italy and the world, performing at medieval festivals, historical reenactments, and ethnic music events. Rooted in the rich heritage of Sicily, the band blends the traditional with the contemporary, creating a musical experience that transcends time and borders.

La Giostra’s style is a harmonious combination of early music, ethno-folk Indo-European rhythms, and Mediterranean influences, with a hint of Celtic and Gothic elements. Their repertoire often features medieval tunes and vulgar Latin songs, intertwined with modern sounds like New Age, pop, and reggae. This innovative approach breathes new life into traditional music, showcasing its relevance in today’s cultural landscape.

The band’s performances are enriched with vernacular lyrics, echoing the songs of ancient minstrels. Nursery rhymes and tongue twisters add rhythmic playfulness, while instruments like the citola, lyre, bagpipe, and flute create an evocative soundscape. These are further enhanced by electric strings, loop stations, and the rhythmic beats of drums, forming a vibrant, multi-layered sonic experience.

La Giostra’s latest project, “Kebra,” is a spectacular showcase of Sicily’s cultural heritage. The show transcends clichéd portrayals of the island, presenting a dynamic vision of a tradition that evolves while maintaining its authenticity. With traditional costumes, fantasy instruments, and engaging storytelling, "Kebra" combines music, comedy, and audience interaction, offering an immersive journey into the heart of Sicilian culture.

La Giostra’s musical journey extends far beyond Sicily. Their performances have graced stages in Europe, Africa, Asia, and South America, weaving their distinctive style into the fabric of global music festivals. Collaborations with international artists and exposure to diverse cultural influences have further enriched their sound, making each performance a reflection of their travels.

At the core of La Giostra’s mission is the preservation of Sicilian musical traditions. They aim to revive and reinterpret songs passed down orally, ensuring their survival in a modern context. Their approach combines authenticity with creative re-elaboration, infusing traditional themes with new melodic and rhythmic structures inspired by various cultures.

La Giostra’s extensive discography, including albums like Buffoni, musici e commedianti… (2002) and their latest release, Kebra (2024), reflects their artistic evolution. Each album captures the band’s ongoing exploration of musical possibilities, blending medieval sounds, ethnic rhythms, and modern elements.

Whether through a haunting medieval ballad or an electrifying fusion of Celtic and Mediterranean tarantellas, La Giostra invites audiences to dance, reflect, and celebrate the universal language of music. Their performances are a testament to the transformative power of cultural fusion, offering a one-of-a-kind musical adventure.