Sanremo Celebrates Jannacci’s Legacy at the 46th Premio Tenco

The 46th annual Premio Tenco, a celebration of Italian songwriting, unfolded from October 19th to 21st in Sanremo, Italy. This year’s festival, themed “Vengo anch’io!” (I’m coming too!), paid tribute to the late Enzo Jannacci, a 1975 Tenco Award recipient, marking the tenth anniversary of his passing. Artistic Director Sergio Secondiano Sacchi emphasized that the event transcended a simple awards ceremony, encompassing educational initiatives and diverse performances across Sanremo’s iconic venues. A masterclass for students at the Teatro Ariston focused on Jannacci’s life and work, complemented by a screening of Giorgio Verdelli’s documentary and a book presentation by Enzo Gentile and Paolo Jannacci. Participants were encouraged to perform Jannacci’s compositions at various locations, including the Teatro Ariston and the former Santa Brigida church. Sanremo Mayor Alberto Biancheri highlighted the Tenco’s vital contribution to the city’s identity as a “City of Music,” underscoring the event’s unique ability to blend various musical genres and create enriching experiences for attendees. The multifaceted program included concerts, presentations, and exhibitions, extending across multiple locations, including the historic city center, over four days. The Club Tenco headquarters, housed in a former train station (soon to feature a digital archive), the former Santa Brigida church, and the Teatro Ariston hosted diverse events from afternoon until late at night. Five prestigious Tenco Awards were presented, recognizing outstanding contributions to Italian and international songwriting and cultural promotion. Carmen Consoli, Eugenio Finardi, and Ron performed on October 20th at the Teatro Ariston, alongside Brazilian artist Tom Zé (International Tenco Award) on October 21st, and Renzo Arbore (Cultural Operator Tenco Award). Angelo Branduardi, unable to attend last year, received his 2022 award on October 20th. The Tenco Plaques, recognizing excellence in songwriting since 1984, were awarded to Niccolò Fabi, Alice (tied with Francesco Guccini), Daniela Pes, Almamegretta, and Vinicio Capossela, with performances by the recipients throughout the festival. Mimmo Ferraro and Marco Rovelli accepted the award for Best Project Album. A new addition this year was the SIAE Award, presented to Jannacci by the Italian Society of Authors and Publishers, with his first registered song being given to his son, Paolo. SIAE President Salvatore Nastasi emphasized the organization’s commitment to supporting young talent and the Premio Tenco’s role in fostering emerging artists. The festival also included an October 18th preview featuring a student masterclass about Jannacci, led by Paolo Jannacci, Paolo Rossi, Paolo Tomelleri, Giorgio Verdelli, and Enzo Gentile. Other events included a screening of Claudio Cabona, Yuri Dellacasa, and Paolo Fossati’s film at the Club Tenco headquarters, a Federico Sirianni concert at the former Santa Brigida church, and an Olden concert featuring the Sanremo Symphony Orchestra. Armando Corsi, Patrizia Cirulli, Tosca, and Flavio Giurato also performed at the Teatro Ariston, hosted by Antonio Silva and Paolo Hendel. For tickets and further details, visit www.clubtenco.it.