Sardinian music in Wales, amidst voices from around the world and intertwined traditions: the Cruc Choir (University Recreation Club) of the University of Cagliari represented Italy at the famous Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod, one of the most important and evocative musical events in Europe.
Six days of music, folklore, and cultural exchange, where every year choirs and artists from every corner of the globe meet. And this year, the only Italian flag flying on stage was the Sardinian one.
A prestigious achievement for a young choir, yet already mature in its awareness of its cultural role. Thanks to the support of the University's Rector and General Director, the choristers brought a uniquely Sardinian repertoire, including sacred music and folk songs, to the heart of Wales.
“Badde Lontana”, “Ave Maria”, “Iandemironnai”, “Nanneddu meu”: these are some of the songs that thrilled the large international audience gathered in the town of Llangollen, festively dressed in the flags of the participating countries.
This participation consolidates the choir's path, having already been a protagonist in 2024 at the Italian university choir festival UNInCANTO in Urbino.
The choir also had the honor of performing in the evocative Catholic Church of Holy Cross, during a Mass celebrated by the Bishop of the Diocese of Wrexham, who publicly expressed his appreciation for the depth and spirituality of the Cagliari voices. It was a solemn moment, which was also widely covered in the local press.
Adding even more symbolism to Italy's participation was the presence of Nicoletta Mantovani, widow of the great Luciano Pavarotti, as the festival's special patroness. To her, the choir dedicated a poignant performance of "Non potho reposare," a song Pavarotti sang with Andrea Parodi in a memorable concert in Modena. A heartfelt tribute, it symbolically united two great musical figures and strengthened the bond between Sardinia and the world.