Founded in 1984 in Riva del Garda through the initiative of a group of local musicians and music enthusiasts, MusicaRiva was born with an ambitious vision: to transform the city into an international center for education, growth, and exchange for young musicians. The goal was—and still is—to offer concrete opportunities for artistic and professional development while promoting musical culture.

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In 1986, the association was formally established, defining its mission: to foster the artistic, social, and cultural growth of the community through high-quality educational activities. From the very beginning, MusicaRiva has stood out for the excellence of its advanced training courses, entrusted to internationally renowned teachers.

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Under the artistic direction of Janos Meszaros (1984–1995), the foundation was laid for a solid and internationally recognized educational project. From 1996 to 2022, artistic direction was passed on to soprano Mietta Sighele, who introduced one of the most distinctive elements of the training program: the orchestral conducting course with a resident orchestra. This course allows participants to work daily with a professional ensemble, engaging with symphonic and operatic repertoire under the guidance of renowned conductors such as Yuri Ahronovitch and Isaac Karabtchevsky.

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Since 2023, artistic direction has been entrusted to Lucas Carl Christ, who has renewed and expanded the educational offering, assigning the conducting course to internationally acclaimed conductor Markus Stenz. Among the new features introduced are workshops and lutherie ateliers, designed to bring a wider audience closer to the world of music and the crafts of musical artistry.

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Every year, MusicaRiva offers a comprehensive program of concerts, masterclasses, competitions, productions, and performances that enliven Riva del Garda and other locations in the surrounding area, enhancing the region’s cultural and natural heritage. The masterclasses, led by celebrated performers, represent a unique opportunity for young musicians, often culminating in public concerts that mark the beginning of meaningful professional journeys.

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Among its most prestigious initiatives is the Riccardo Zandonai International Competition for Young Opera Singers, recognized worldwide. Each year, a jury composed of artistic directors from major European theaters selects young talents, offering awards, scholarships, and real professional opportunities. The competition represented Italy at the Shanghai World Expo in 2010 and has helped launch numerous international careers.

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MusicaRiva is also a promoter of shared cultural projects in collaboration with institutions, foundations, companies, and local organizations. The association makes its experience and network of artists available for the organization of corporate and cultural events, offering high-quality customized musical solutions.

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With over forty years of activity, MusicaRiva remains a point of reference on the international musical scene, with a constant focus on innovation, young talent, and the dissemination of musical culture.