The 5th edition of the CEI Piano Forum was successfully held on 8 May in Sacile (Italy) in the framework of the FVG International Piano Competition. Since 2020, the Forum has highlighted the role of music and culture in fostering intercultural dialogue and promoting EU values such as respect for cultural diversity, over linguistic and ethnic divisions.
This year’s edition, inspired by the “GO! Borderless” vision of Nova Gorica/Gorizia European Capital of Culture 2025, explored the concept of overcoming cultural, linguistic, and political boundaries through artistic expression.
Coordinated by cultural consultant Chiara Mutton, the event featured young musicians from the CEI area such as pianists: Luka Petrović (Novi Sad / Serbia, 2001), Lara Makovac (Rijeka / Croatia, 2003), Łukasz Wilga (Bytom / Poland, 1992); and a cellist/composer Chiara Trentin (Udine / Italy, 1991). They shared their experiences and performed at ITLAS’s “Harmony Room” in Sacile. Discussions focused on mobility, artistic crossover, and gender dynamics in the music profession, complemented by a live survey of participants.
Artistic Director Davide Fregona and the international jury, including several musicians from CEI countries, presented the conclusions, highlighting that the forum served as a meaningful platform for cultural exchange in Central and Eastern Europe.
As for the FVG competition, four finalists are from CEI countries, i.e., Alessandro Artese (Italy, 2001), Domenico Bevilacqua (Italy, 2002), Tomasz Marut (Poland, 1996), Mia Pečnik (Croatia, 2000). A CEI Special Prize will be awarded in the final phase of the Competition, in 2026.
For more info: fabro@cei.int