Autumn Melodies – Zampognari Gathering

The zampognari gathering in the village of Moscufo

Autumn Melodies – Zampognari Gathering is the event that, every year between late November and the first days of winter, brings the historic center of Moscufo to life. This small hillside town in the province of Pescara, Abruzzo, hosts the celebration. Born as a way to rediscover folk traditions, the festival attracts zampogna and ciaramella players from all over Abruzzo and surrounding areas, transforming the streets and squares of the village into a widespread stage for roving music.

The zampogna, the sonic memory of Abruzzo

The gathering focuses on an ancient instrument deeply linked to the pastoral culture of the Apennines. The sound of the zampogna, which traditionally accompanies the Advent season and the holidays, becomes the common thread of a day dedicated to the meeting of memory and the present. Groups and collectives such as the Associazione Zampognari d'Abruzzo and the Circolo della Zampogna di Scapoli have enlivened past editions with musical twinning, concerts, and moments of shared performance.

Typical program of the event

Throughout the day, the village comes alive following an established route:

• Roving music by the zampognari through the streets and squares of the historic center;
• Artisan markets dedicated to local produce and traditional crafts;
• Food stalls featuring "Autumn Flavors": local specialties and dishes from Abruzzo cuisine;
• Workshops for children, folk dance classes, and educational activities;
• Performances by marching bands, shows, and evening concerts.

Moscufo, a village of oil and Romanesque art

The town is home to the famous Church of Santa Maria del Lago, a 12th-century Romanesque jewel housing the precious ambo created by the master Nicodemo in 1159 and valuable frescoes. Moscufo is also renowned for its extra virgin olive oil production. The event is therefore set within a context of strong local identity, where musical tradition, artistic heritage, and rural culture intertwine.

Organization

The gathering is promoted by the Municipality of Moscufo with the involvement of local associations and the contribution of the Fondazione Pescarabruzzo, with the aim of promoting Abruzzo's folk traditions and the historic village.