The legendary Southern Italian roots band Canzoniere Grecanico Salentino will celebrate their 50th Anniversary with an explosive show of thunderous rhythm, showing why they have the reputation as one of the most thrilling live bands in the world. Led by the pulsating healing rhythms of the Taranta, CGS will perform at The Myron R. Szold Music & Dance Hall of the Old Town School of Folk Music, Chicago.
“CGS offer a lesson in how to turn local music into a global brand”
The Guardian
“a whirlwind”
The New York Times
Leader Mauro Durante carries on the legacy of his visionary family who formed the band in 1975 with the aim of preserving Taranta heritage. Italy’s fascinating dichotomy of tradition and modernity come together in the music of CGS: the seven piece band and dancer are the leading exponents in a new wave of young performers re-inventing Southern Italy’s Pizzica musical and dance traditions for today’s global audience.
CGS shows are a life explosion: full of energy, passion, rhythm and mystery, they bring the audience from the past into modernity, and back.
Lineup
Mauro Durante voice, frame drums, violin
Alessia Tondo voice, percussions
Giulio Bianco Italian bagpipes, harmonica, recorders
Massimiliano Morabito diatonic accordion
Emanuele Licci voice, guitar, bouzouki
Giancarlo Paglialunga voice, tamburrieddhu
Silvia Perrone dance