Thinking back to those early days when everything seemed easy and it was all plain sailing, I sometimes wonder how we ever reached this impressive number of years. But music keeps one young, they say, and it’s true that the joy of making and listening to music does not fade with age. I would even say that it grows with the experience and wisdom of the past – our common past that creates our present and, I hope, our future.

There have been many moments of doubt, anxiety, and fears, as well as emotional moments of joy and success, throughout these years. On this occasion, however, I would like to speak with much fondness of Incontri’s public: it is heart-warming to remember the enthusiasm of our first loyal followers who would never miss a concert (a dwindling number now, sadly), and all those who have taken their place with no less enthusiasm, and who tend to consider our “encounters” as a rendez-vous to look forward to every summer. In particular I like to think of the wonderful artist friends who have enjoyed what I call the Val d’Orcia experience, full of music, beauty, good food, families, and fun, year after year. I also much enjoy going to concerts to hear artists who have been in “our” festival too – and they are many! Finally, thinking of the generations who have grown around Incontri in these 35 years, I want to make a toast in gratitude to its founder, who has left his indelible imprint on this festival, and to his successor, who is leading it today with ever growing success. Thank you both. 

– Benedetta Origo, March 2023