Accademia Vicino of Accumoli

An academy born from reconstruction

The Accademia Vicino of Accumoli is a unique cultural project based in the village of Accumoli, in the province of Rieti—one of the areas most devastated by the earthquake that struck the Central Apennines in August 2016. Promoted by the University for Continuing Education in Krems (Austria) in partnership with the Municipality of Accumoli, the academy views music as an essential element of a "holistic" reconstruction strategy, aiming to revitalize the region's cultural, social, and economic fabric alongside physical rebuilding.

An international orchestra in the mountains of Lazio

Every summer, the initiative attracts young musicians from all over the world who live and study in Accumoli for a week, forming an international orchestra. The program balances orchestral rehearsals, chamber music, and masterclasses with study sessions and discussions focused on local history, culture, and reconstruction. The experience culminates in a series of free public concerts hosted in Accumoli and neighboring towns, ranging from Amatrice to Norcia and Ascoli Piceno.

The 2026 edition: the tenth anniversary of the earthquake

The 2026 edition takes place from August 19th to 25th and holds special significance: it falls on the tenth anniversary of the 2016 earthquake, serving as a musical memorial for the community of Accumoli and the entire crater area. As per tradition, the week combines rehearsals for the young musicians with evening concerts open to all, church services, and commemorative moments, concluding with the "Academy Festival," which blends music and conviviality with the local citizens.

The bond with Austria

Under the artistic direction of maestro Johannes Wildner, the orchestra prepares and performs a classical repertoire that has spanned from Mozart to the Strauss family, and from Verdi to Tchaikovsky. The project, which has received a European award in the Arts and Culture category, acts as a bridge between Austrian musical tradition and the rebirth of an Apennine village, also featuring the collaboration of the local town band directed by maestro Vittorio Altavilla.

Accumoli, a village reborn

Attending the Accademia Vicino concerts offers a unique way to experience Accumoli and its surroundings: a small Lazio municipality that is rediscovering its identity and community through music. For visitors, it is also the perfect opportunity to explore the landscapes of the Monti della Laga and the upper Tronto valley, where the regions of Lazio, Umbria, Marche, and Abruzzo meet.