The Story of I Suonatori di Taormina

The story of I Suonatori di Taormina is one of friendship, dreams, and rebirth. It all began with a special encounter between two kindred spirits, Giuseppe Torrisi and Gianni D’Amico, bonded by a deep connection and the desire to transform life through music.

It started in November 1999, in Milan, with a gift that would change both their destinies: a mandolin, lovingly chosen by Giuseppe for Gianni’s birthday. At first, Gianni saw it merely as a decoration, a simple piece of wood, but one evening, perhaps encouraged by a glass of wine, he plucked its strings for the first time. That clear, resonant sound, almost human, captivated him. It was love at first note. From that moment on, the mandolin became his inseparable companion, a silent friend that spoke directly to his heart.

One winter day, with their lives in turmoil and their dreams still unrealized, Giuseppe convinced Gianni to play music on the streets of Lugano’s lakeside promenade. With just one song in their repertoire and hearts full of hope, they began to play. And then, the magic happened: the sun was shining, the lake glistened, and people stopped, listened, and sang along. Some smiled, some cried, children danced, and the audience extended their hands to place coins and notes into the open guitar case.

That morning wasn’t just a performance; it was a revelation. In those smiles and gestures, Giuseppe and Gianni found a new path, a new life: to bring traditional Sicilian and Neapolitan music everywhere, touching hearts through their melodies.

For over 21 years, they played together, sharing not just music but emotions. They traveled roads, squares, weddings, and stages across Italy, Europe, and America, spreading the sound of Sicily, the energy of tarantellas, and the beauty of a dream born almost by chance.

In 2021, Gianni left us, but his spirit lives on in every melody, every plucked string, and every smile from the audience. Today, I Suonatori di Taormina continue their journey with Giuseppe Torrisi on guitar and vocals, Rosa Torrisi on mandolin, and Giuseppe La Ganga on accordion and vocals. They carry forward a tradition that is more than just music—it is an invisible thread that connects the past and present, heart and soul.

A“ gift changed a life, and a life changed everything”“Long live friendship, long live music, long live the art of I   

                                                     “Suonatori di Taormina”