Sounds that change the world: WididaQuartet

Afro-American Music as a Tool of Social Change
Manlio Pepe Stage /Blues Space – Via Strozzi, Livorno

WididaQuartet

The Widida Quintet is an eclectic Italian acoustic ensemble born in 2022. The project comes to life from the original sound dialogue between the cello of Martina Benifei and the trumpet of Filippo Ceccarini, a combination in which “wood and metal merge”. The formation, completed by the voice of Francesca Del Gatto and the young expressive talent of Federico Cosci, who with his percussion brings a fresh, dynamic and overwhelming rhythmic pulsation, has been expanded to a quintet thanks to the guitar of Andrea Musio. The group offers original songs and rearrangements from the 20th century, exploring the connection between Afro-American music and Italian songs.

The Project

“Sounds that Change the World” is a 4-night music event that brings the transformative power of Afro-American music into the heart of Effetto Venezia, specifically aimed at the new generations. Blues, jazz, soul and their evolutions are not just musical genres: they have been – and continue to be – tools of struggle, identity, redemption and social change.

Each night intertwines live music, moments of discussion and open dialogue with the young audience, showing how artists from the past and present have used music to challenge injustice, build communities, and inspire movements. All in the intimate and direct spirit of the Spazio Blues stage, a space that for years has created an authentic connection between musicians and the audience.