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Biccari Music Festival In the Heart of Southern Italy
Zoom Meeting Link for Sunday- https://us06web.zoom.us/j/84476139021?pwd=a6BWe50bNpyV0bOaZ1sWIcaC8qdN8x.1
Click here to complete our 2026 harp\clarinet\string festival interest survey!
Click here to access the June 2026 (harp\clarinet) Registration Form
Click here to access the August 2026 (string\chamber music) Registration Form
Experience the Magic of Music in Medieval Puglia, Italy
Join us for an unforgettable journey to the breathtaking town of Biccari, nestled atop the Daunian Mountains. Immerse yourself in music, culture, and authentic Southern Italian hospitality.
Meet our 2026 Festival Leaders
String/Chamber Music Conductor
for August 2026
Joseph Brennan
Joseph Brennan holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Music Education from Temple University, with majors in violin and trumpet. He retired in 2022 after 37 years as a music educator, including 36 years as Director of Orchestras at Haverford Middle and High Schools in suburban Philadelphia. During his tenure, he also served as Music Department Co-Chair for the School District of Haverford Township and led ensembles to numerous PMEA state conferences. Under his direction, the Haverford High School Symphony Orchestra performed in a side-by-side with the Philadelphia Orchestra and represented Pennsylvania at America’s 400th Anniversary event. In 2006, he received PMEA’s Citation of Excellence Award.
Mr. Brennan currently serves as adjunct faculty at Rowan University and is the string ensemble and orchestra director at Our Lady of Good Counsel Church in Moorestown, NJ. A former President of the PA/DE Chapter of ASTA, he received the chapter’s Distinguished Service Award in 2018 and has presented nationally at ASTA, NAfME, MidWest Clinics, and state conferences. An active guest conductor, freelance violinist, and trumpeter in the Philadelphia area, he brings a unique perspective as both a string and wind player. He also serves on the board of the Association of Church Musicians in Philadelphia.
Outside of music, Joe is an organ donor advocate, cancer survivor, and supporter of the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society.
Click here to complete our 2026 harp\clarinet\string festival interest survey!
Musical Opportunities 
Participants will join dynamic ensembles and engaging workshops led by:
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Maestro Michele Stelluto, former conductor of the Italian Navy Band
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Gloria Galante, acclaimed jazz harpist
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Lucia Galdi Marone, program director and festival coordinator
Highlights included
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Ensemble collaborations
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Jazz improvisation sessions
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Open mic night
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Grand finale concert
Cultural Immersion for All
When you’re not making music, enjoy:
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Historical tours to sites such as Padre Pio, Pompeii, Bari, St. Michael's
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Italian cooking classes
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Scenic hikes and local wine\olive oil tastings
Guest Experience
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Non-musician guests are welcome!
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A special itinerary of cooking, culture, and local activities will be led by
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Don Leonardo Catalano (town pastor) and
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Jim Marone (guest experience coordinator)
Build Lasting Connections
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Share in the spirit of music and community—return home with unforgettable friendships and memories.
Save the Dates
Festival Dates: June 7–15, 2026 (harp and Clarinet programs) or August 23031, 2026 (Stirng and Chamber Music)
Click here to complete our festival interest survey and join our mailing list!
Cost $3,400
What’s Included
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8 nights lodging in Biccari
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Transportation to/from Naples Airport (at designated times)
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2 meals daily (continental breakfast + one main meal)
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Ensemble workshops, rehearsals, and final concert
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All tour entrance fees and group transportation
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Cultural excursions, cooking classes, and guest programming
?? Airfare not included
Registration Details
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$750 non-refundable deposit due at registration
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Balance due by May 1, 2026.
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Payment accepted via Zelle or check (details below)
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Passport must be valid through December 2026
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Airport pickup is available from Naples (2 hr 15 min)
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If flying into Rome (4.5 hr), we recommend taking the train to Foggia for pickup (small fee)
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Need help booking? Contact Sylvia Thomas, Thomas Travel
1-631-423-4506Travel insurance available at AllianzTravelInsurance.com
2025 Festival Reviews
From Musicians
“A unique opportunity to bring together two diverse musical populations and quickly develop into a cohesive ensemble. Phenomenal!” – Conductor
“As a musician, this experience helped me reconnect with my instrument after years away. It was life-changing.”
From Cultural Travelers:
Live like a local in the heart of Southern Italy. Not just a tourist—part of the community.
“Experiencing true small-town Italian life. You wouldn’t get this on any other tour.”
“The food, the people, the town… everything felt so real and welcoming.”
“I arrived as a guest and left feeling like family.”
?? What Past Participants Say:
“The music, the community, the food… every part was magical.”
“This was the blessing I didn’t know I needed.”
“Photo opportunities at every step. I’m ready to paint again!”
Questions? Contact Us! 
Lucia Galdi Marone
[email protected]
609-364-1776
Click here to complete our 2026 harp\woodwind\string festival interest survey!
In 2026, we will offer excursions similar to those in 2025, with a few exciting changes. For guests who have already visited Padre Pio in San Giovanni Rotondo, we are planning alternatives such as Manfredonia or Bari, along with local olive oil and winery tastings to further highlight the culture and flavors of the region.
Contact Lucia Galdi Marone at [email protected] or 609-364-1776 for more info...
Experience the Magic of Music in Medieval Puglia, Italy
Join us from June 7th through June 15th for an unforgettable journey to a breathtaking medieval town atop the Daunian Mountains in Puglia, Italy. Immerse yourself in a unique blend of musical harmony and authentic Italian culture.
A Unique Opportunity for Adult Harpists, Woodwind Players, and String Musicsicans
Musicians will participate in dynamic ensembles and interactive workshops led by Maestro Michele Stelluto, former conductor of the Italian Navy Band; renowned jazz harpist Gloria Galante; and program director Lucia Galdi Marone.
The experience features ensemble collaborations, jazz improvisation sessions, and a lively open mic night—all leading up to a grand finale performance. Beyond the music, participants will enjoy cultural immersion through historical tours, Italian cooking classes, scenic hikes, and local wine tastings.
Guest Experiences for Non-Musicians
While musicians attend workshops, non-musician companions can engage with local culture. Collaborate with local residents to discover the region's treasures, learn the art of Italian cooking, and embrace the lifestyle in Biccari, guided by Don Leonardo Catalano (town paster) and Jim Marone (guest experience-co-ordinator).
Build Lasting Connections
Shared cultural experiences emphasize community-building, fostering lasting bonds beyond music. Participants will gain a network of support and inspiration.
Open to All Skill Levels
This event is open to individuals aged 18 and above, welcoming all skill levels. Friends and family are also invited to join.
Mark Your Calendars
Don’t miss this unique opportunity to immerse yourself in music and Italian culture. Mark your calendars for June 7th through June 15th for this enriching 8-day festival.
Area Attractions
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Wineries |
Lucera |
The Mountains |
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Biccari |
Pompeii |
Padre Pio Shrine |
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Additional Information
2026: $3,400
The cost of the trip is €$3,400 USD
Payments:
A deposit of $750 ( is due upon signing this agreement to reserve your spot.The remaining balance is due 50 days prior to travel.
Includes: pick-up from Naples airport, all excursions, breakfast and dinner daily, and all music activities.
Cooking class for all participants, with additional cooking classes available for guests
Transportation to and from Naples Airport
Schedule highlights:
Morning: Musicians rehearse while guests enjoy local product tastings and guided town tours.
Afternoon & evening: Excursions and activities for all participants, including concerts, cultural experiences, and culinary events.
This ensures that every participant, whether musician or guest, has a full and immersive schedule throughout the festival.