Beat Onto Jazz Festival

A festival that brought jazz to the heart of Puglia

The Beat Onto Jazz Festival was established in 2001 by the InJazz association and has grown over two decades into one of Southern Italy's premier jazz showcases. Every summer, the festival brings international stars and emerging talents to the historic center of Bitonto, in the Metropolitan City of Bari. Over the years, more than 800 musicians have graced the stage, providing hundreds of hours of live music.

The Stage: Piazza Cattedrale

The festival's heart is the evocative Piazza Cattedrale, set against the backdrop of Bitonto's stunning Romanesque co-cathedral. Under the early August stars, the square draws thousands of enthusiasts and tourists each night. The intimate atmosphere and the architectural beauty of the setting make this one of the most beloved events in the southern jazz scene.

The Format: Two concerts per night, free admission

The festival traditionally presents two concerts per evening, from Friday to Monday, starting in the late evening. All events are free of charge, ensuring that world-class music remains accessible to everyone. Artistic director Emanuele Dimundo curates a lineup that balances jazz legends, experimental projects, and local Apulian ensembles, fostering a dialogue between different generations and musical cultures.

Beyond the music

The festival features numerous fringe events: jazz-themed book presentations, meetings with critics and journalists, and special access to city museums, including the Diocesan Museum and the National Gallery of Puglia. It is a perfect opportunity to explore the historical and artistic heritage of Bitonto, a city renowned for its extra virgin olive oil and medieval old town.

A landmark for Puglia

Co-funded by the Municipality of Bitonto and supported by the Puglia Regional Council and private sponsors, the Beat Onto Jazz Festival is a staple of the Apulian summer, attracting audiences from across the region and beyond. For jazz lovers, it is an unmissable stop on the Southern Italian musical calendar.